Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy weeknight staple that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for cook frozen black eyed peas offers an incredibly simple and satisfying way to bring a taste of the South to your table in under 30 minutes. Forget the fuss of soaking dried beans; this method unlocks flavorful, tender black-eyed peas with minimal effort, making it the perfect side dish or even a light main course. In this post, we’ll guide you through making a stellar dish using cook frozen black eyed peas that will quickly become a family favorite.
Key Ingredients for Cooked Frozen Black Eyed Peas
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this fantastic black-eyed pea dish:
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen black-eyed peas: No need to thaw! These are the star of our show.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding a rich base.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet and aromatic foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that classic savory depth.
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances flavor.
- 1/4 cup diced cooked ham, bacon, or turkey sausage (optional): For a smoky, savory boost. If making it vegetarian, omit this or use a smoked paprika for flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a delicious smoky depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that pairs beautifully with black-eyed peas.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little kick if you like heat.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Crucial for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and color.
How to Make Cooked Frozen Black Eyed Peas
This dish for cook frozen black eyed peas is incredibly easy to make, delivering a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal fuss. Its rich, savory flavors are perfectly balanced with a hint of spice, creating a comforting and wholesome dish. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these humble frozen peas transform into a culinary delight. From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 25-30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare Your Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to brown them too much.
- Add the Garlic and Meat (if using): Stir in the minced garlic and cooked ham, bacon, or turkey sausage (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the meat is slightly crisped (if bacon or ham). If you’re going vegetarian, just cook the garlic for a minute until fragrant.
- Introduce the Black-Eyed Peas and Seasonings: Add the frozen black-eyed peas directly to the saucepan. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember to start with a little salt and adjust later.
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender and the liquid has slightly reduced. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for Tenderness and Adjust Seasoning: Once the cooking time is up, taste the black-eyed peas. They should be tender but not mushy. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cayenne if needed. If the liquid is too thin, you can remove the lid and simmer for an additional few minutes to thicken it slightly. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the cooked black-eyed peas into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
cook frozen black eyed peas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add frozen black eyed peas, vegetable broth (or water), salt, and black pepper to a medium pot. If using, add olive oil now.12 oz frozen black eyed peas, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain any excess liquid, if desired, or leave some for a richer sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm as a side dish or incorporate into your favorite recipes.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Cooked Frozen Black Eyed Peas
You’ll adore this cook frozen black eyed peas recipe for its incredible ease and comforting deliciousness, making it a true weeknight hero. The main highlight is how quickly it transforms simple frozen peas into a hearty, flavorful dish bursting with savory notes and a subtle smokiness, all without the hassle of soaking. Beyond its taste appeal, preparing this dish at home offers significant cost savings compared to canned or restaurant versions, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without breaking the bank. The addition of smoky paprika and fresh herbs elevates the flavor profile, creating a truly special experience. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy evening.
Compared to a traditional slow-cooked black-eyed pea recipe, this quick version demonstrates that convenience doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It maintains the soulful essence while dramatically cutting down on prep and cook time. We encourage you to try this simple yet spectacular recipe for cook frozen black eyed peas and discover just how easy it is to create a truly satisfying meal. Don’t forget to explore our other quick and easy legume recipes for more weeknight inspiration!
What to Serve Cooked Frozen Black Eyed Peas With
Cook frozen black eyed peas are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing, cornbread is perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth.
- Collard Greens or Braised Kale: These leafy greens provide a wonderful earthy contrast and a healthy dose of vitamins.
- Rice (White or Brown): Serve over a bed of fluffy rice for a more substantial meal, absorbing the flavorful liquid.
- Grilled or Roasted Chicken: Lean proteins like grilled chicken breast or roasted chicken thighs make excellent companions.
- Pork Chops: Pan-seared or baked pork chops are a savory addition that complements the peas well.
- Skillet Corn: A sweet and savory side that adds another layer of Southern comfort.
- A Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the peas.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cooked Frozen Black Eyed Peas
To ensure your cook frozen black eyed peas turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re doubling the recipe, consider using a larger pot or cooking in batches to ensure even cooking and proper liquid reduction.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning Throughout: Black-eyed peas really benefit from proper seasoning. Taste after adding the broth and again before serving. Remember, it’s easier to add more salt than to fix an over-salted dish. A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors considerably.
- Vary Your Meats (or Keep it Vegetarian): While ham hocks are traditional, using pre-cooked diced ham, bacon, or turkey sausage makes this recipe much faster. For a vegetarian option, increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke for that depth. Cubed smoked tofu or tempeh can also work well.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice level. If you love heat, add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, omit the cayenne altogether. A bay leaf added during simmering can also infuse more depth.
- Watch the Consistency: If the peas are cooking quickly and the liquid is reducing too fast, add a little more broth or water. Conversely, if there’s too much liquid at the end, simply remove the lid and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
- A Touch of Sweetness (Optional): Some people enjoy a hint of sweetness with their black-eyed peas. A tiny pinch of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup at the end can balance the savory flavors beautifully.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These cook frozen black eyed peas are fantastic for meal prepping! Proper storage ensures you can enjoy them for days to come.
- Refrigeration: Allow the cooked black-eyed peas to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to consume them within this timeframe for optimal taste and safety.
- Freezing: This dish freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled, spoon the black-eyed peas into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, press out as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date. Frozen black-eyed peas will maintain their quality for up to 3 months.
- Reheating (from Refrigerated): For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen them up and prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, stirring every minute, until hot.
- Reheating (from Frozen): Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture. Then, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave as you would with refrigerated leftovers. If reheating directly from frozen, use the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little liquid, until thawed and heated through. Be patient, as it will take longer.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a remarkably simple yet incredibly flavorful way to enjoy cook frozen black eyed peas. This recipe proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen or exotic ingredients to create a truly comforting and healthy meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying side dish, or a plant-based protein boost, these black-eyed peas deliver on all fronts. Loaded with fiber, nutrients, and heartwarming flavors, they’re a testament to the power of simple ingredients. So grab that bag from your freezer, whip up this dish, and savor the delicious convenience. You’ll be delighted by how easy and rewarding it is!