why make this recipe
Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas are a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Black-eyed peas are packed with flavor and nutrition, making them a perfect choice for a healthy meal. This recipe is easy to follow, whether you use an Instant Pot or cook them on the stovetop. Plus, adding heavy cream gives it an extra creamy texture that makes it irresistible.
how to make Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas
- 4 cups water or broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Directions:
- Rinse the black-eyed peas and soak them for 4 hours or overnight. Drain before cooking.
- In an Instant Pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add peas, water or broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and bay leaves.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow natural release of pressure.
- For stovetop, combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer for about 1 hour or until peas are tender. Stir in heavy cream before serving if desired.
how to serve Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas
Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas can be served warm as a main dish or a side. They pair well with cornbread, rice, or your favorite meats. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for an extra pop of flavor.
how to store Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas
If you have leftovers, let the black-eyed peas cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas
- Always rinse and soak black-eyed peas to remove dirt and improve their texture.
- If you want a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the peas before serving.
- Experiment with different spices if you want to add a unique flavor.
variation
You can make this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of water or meat broth. Additionally, try adding some diced ham or bacon for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas. Just drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot with the other ingredients. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
2. Is the heavy cream necessary?
No, the heavy cream is optional. It adds a rich and creamy texture, but the dish is still delicious without it.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the recipe for an extra kick. Start with a little and adjust to your heat preference.
Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas Rinse and soak before cooking.
- 4 cups water or broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 pieces bay leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional) Adds richness and creaminess.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the black-eyed peas and soak them for 4 hours or overnight. Drain before cooking.
Cooking in Instant Pot
- In an Instant Pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add black-eyed peas, water or broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and bay leaves.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow natural release of pressure.
Cooking on Stovetop
- Combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer for about 1 hour or until peas are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream before serving if desired.