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spicy black eyed peas

Spicy Black Eyed Peas

These spicy black eyed peas are packed with flavor and a kick! A perfect side or main dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Soaking Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Creole, Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb dried black eyed peas soaked overnight or quick-soaked
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 jalapeño minced, seeds removed for less heat
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
Seasonings
  • 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or to taste
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. If using dried black eyed peas, rinse them thoroughly. Soak them overnight in cold water, or use the quick-soak method: bring peas to a boil in water, boil for 2 minutes, then cover and let stand for 1 hour. Drain well.
    1 lb dried black eyed peas
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
    1 large onion, 1 Tbsp olive oil
  3. Stir in minced garlic and jalapeño. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    2 cloves garlic, 1 jalapeño
  4. Add the drained black eyed peas, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
    1 lb dried black eyed peas, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the black eyed peas are tender. Stir occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
    salt, black pepper, 1/4 cup fresh parsley

Notes

For an even deeper flavor, you can add a smoked turkey hock or a vegetarian smoky flavor enhancer (like liquid smoke or smoked salt) during simmering. Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. Serve with rice or cornbread for a complete meal!