Table of Contents
Have you ever heard of the famous southern musical band group black eyed peas? They are popular, but today, we are going to talk about other kinds of black-eyed peas. Now, what’s really interesting is that these, too, have a Southern twist. Cooking beans is always a lovely feeling. Whether you are creating that healthy black bean recipe for dinner or adding a magical twist to your black-eyed peas recipe vegetarian style, cooking and eating home food is exceptional. Imagine sometimes, when you’re sitting at your home in the warmth and coziness of the winter season, you crave something warm to relish. Now, what is more perfect than the slow-cooked vegetarian recipe of black peas? By now, your mouth must be watering at the thought of it. Therefore, we aren’t going to make you wait any longer. Let’s head to our kitchen and learn more about this recipe!
What are Black Eyed Peas?
Black-eyed peas are little beans with a big nutritional and flavor punch. They are distinguished by their characteristic dark patch that mimics an eye. They are a mainstay in many culinary traditions, but the Mediterranean diet especially honors them for their beneficial effects on health.
Benefits to Nutrition
- Packed with Nutrients: Due to their high nutritional content, black-eyed peas are a great supplement to any diet. Therefore, soluble fiber supports gut health and aids with digestion.
- Folate: Essential for metabolism and cell growth.
- Magnesium: Promotes healthy neuron and muscle function.
- Vitamin A: Essential for a healthy immune system and vision.
- Iron: Essential for maintaining healthy blood and avoiding anemia.
Advantages for Health
- Contentment and Control of Weight: Black-eyed peas provide high fiber, high protein, and healthy carbohydrates that help you feel fuller for longer. Hence, this can help you control your weight and stop overindulging.
- Heart Conditions: Black-eyed peas’ soluble fiber lowers cholesterol and heart disease risk.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Because of their low glycemic index, these beans are a fantastic option for preserving stable blood sugar levels.
- Use in Recipes: Black-eyed peas are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of recipes, including stews and salads. Their mildly nutty flavor and substantial texture complement many dishes.
- Dietary Mediterranean: Black-eyed peas are frequently used in Mediterranean dishes that highlight nutritious grains, legumes, and veggies. A delectable way to eat them is to combine them with fresh veggies and herbs in a Greek-style recipe.
A Recipe Guide to Make Vegetarian Black-Eyed Peas
Let us move on to the recipe to cook up some delicious vegetarian black beans. First things first, ingredients!
Ingredients
- First use Early Harvest Greek extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) for the most excellent flavor.
- One chopped large yellow onion.
- Four chopped garlic cloves.
- One chopped bell pepper, green.
- Two to three carrots peeled and cut.
- One fifteen-oz can of diced tomatoes, with their liquids.
- Two cups of water
- One parched bay leaf
- 1 ½ tablespoons of cumin powder
- One tsp of dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Try using smoked paprika for a more complex flavor.
- To taste, add black pepper and kosher salt.
- Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if desired for extra spiciness.
- Two 15-ounce cans of washed and drained black-eyed peas. You may also use dry or soaked black-eyed peas; modify the cooking timings.
- One lime or lemon juice
- One cup of freshly chopped parsley
Extra Ingredients
- One red bell pepper adds a vibrant and tasty touch.
- Collard greens: To offer texture and additional nutrients.
- To add a smoky flavor without using smoked paprika, use liquid smoke.
- Extra virgin olive oil: To drizzle over food at the table.
Method
Here is how you can start making your classy vegetarian black beans in style.
1. Getting Ready
First, get ready to start cooking black eyed peas.
- Warm up the Oil: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a big saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
- Aromatics in Sauté: Add the minced garlic and onions. Sauté for a short while until aromatic and transparent.
2. Cooking
Next, start cooking and adding the required ingredients.
- Include Veggies: Add the diced carrots and bell peppers. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes.
3. Mix the Ingredients
Add the water, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, paprika, diced tomatoes with their juices, salt, and pepper. Turn up the heat until you bring it to a boil.
- Add Black-Eyed Peas: Do not omit the black-eyed peas. After five minutes of boiling, reduce the heat. Simmer partially covered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring from time to time. Hence, add a little water if the stew appears to be too dry.
4. Final Details
Lastly, its time for some final details.
- Include New Components: Add the chopped parsley and lemon or lime juice and stir.
To serve, divide the mixture into bowls and sprinkle with plenty of extra virgin olive oil. Therefore, serve it over orzo, rice, or your preferred grain or alongside warm Greek pita.
Some Serving Options for Black-Eyed Peas
Here is a look at some of the serving suggestions for making black eyed peas.
- Using Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of Early Harvest Greek extra virgin olive oil enhances the stew’s flavors and adds a significant depth of richness.
- Along with Bread: Serve the stew over chewy, flavorful pita bread for a traditional but tasty side dish.
- Using Grains: Top quinoa, orzo, cooked rice, or any other grain with heaping servings of the stewed black-eyed peas. This results in a filling and healthy supper.
As a Side, Serve a classic Greek salad alongside the stew. Hence, the crisp and fresh salad produces a well-balanced and revitalizing lunch, wonderfully contrasting with the warm and flavorful stew.
Final Thoughts
As we ended the spicy and savory culinary journey, we went on discovering the variety of vegetarian black-eyed peas dishes leads to abundant filling and healthy food choices.
In conclusion, these hearty meals will uplift your table while showcasing the rich taste of black-eyed peas in each bite.
Black-eyed peas for the win!
