Are you looking for a dish that is not only quick and easy to make, but also packed with nutrients and flavor? Look no further than black eyed pea kale stir fry. As someone who values healthy eating and delicious food, I can attest to the fact that this recipe checks all the boxes. With its combination of protein-rich black eyed peas, nutritious kale, and savory spices, this dish is a staple in my household. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
I still remember the first time I had black eyed pea kale stir fry. I was visiting my grandmother, who had made it for lunch using fresh kale from her garden and black eyed peas she had cooked from scratch. The flavors and textures were incredible, and I was hooked from the first bite. Since then, I’ve made this recipe countless times, experimenting with different spices and ingredients to make it my own. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, this recipe is easily adaptable to your taste.
Ingredients
To make black eyed pea kale stir fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
- 2 cups fresh kale, stems removed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, for some heat

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
To make black eyed pea kale stir fry, follow these easy steps:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add the soaked and drained black eyed peas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the black eyed peas are tender and lightly browned.
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet, stirring to combine with the black eyed pea mixture. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If using cayenne pepper, add it now and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

black eyed pea kale stir fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 onion
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.2 cloves garlic
- Add the soaked and drained black eyed peas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.1 cup dried black eyed peas, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, Salt and pepper
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the black eyed peas are tender and lightly browned.
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet, stirring to combine with the black eyed pea mixture. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.2 cups fresh kale
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If using cayenne pepper, add it now and stir to combine.1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.Fresh herbs or lemon juice
Notes
Expert Tips for Best Results
To get the best results from your black eyed pea kale stir fry, be sure to soak the black eyed peas overnight to reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. Also, don’t overcook the kale – it should be wilted but still retain some crunch. Finally, experiment with different spices and seasonings to make the recipe your own. Some options include adding diced bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrients, or using different types of protein like cooked chicken or tofu.
Serving Suggestions
Black eyed pea kale stir fry is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Try serving it over brown rice or quinoa for a filling and nutritious meal, or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein or vegetable. You can also use it as a topping for salads or bowls, or as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. For a fun twist, try serving it at a dinner party or potluck, where it’s sure to be a hit with guests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, black eyed pea kale stir fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful recipe that is perfect for anyone looking to add more nutrients and delicious food to their diet. With its combination of protein-rich black eyed peas, nutritious kale, and savory spices, this dish is a staple in my household and is sure to become one in yours as well. Whether you’re a busy professional or an avid home cook, this recipe is easy to make and adaptable to your taste, making it a great addition to any meal or occasion.
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