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Creamy Black Eyed Peas

Looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of legumes with a creamy twist? Try our creamy black-eyed peas recipe! It’s a southern classic that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Southern, American
Keyword Black-Eyed Peas, Creamy Black Eyed Peas
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 290kcal
Cost 8$-10$

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried black-eyed peas or 4 cups cooked black-eyed peas
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tablespoon butter optional for extra richness
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas: If using dried peas, rinse them thoroughly and soak them in water overnight or use the quick-soak method. To quick-soak, bring a pot of water to a boil, add the peas, and boil for 2 minutes. Turn off the heat, cover, and let them sit for 1 hour before draining.
  • Cook the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the Broth and Black-Eyed Peas: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and add the black-eyed peas, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
  • Make it Creamy: Once the peas are cooked, remove the bay leaf and add the heavy cream and milk. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. If you'd like a richer taste, add butter at this stage.
  • Serve: Once the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency, remove from heat. Serve with rice, cornbread, or enjoy on its own. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Notes

Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes, you can substitute dried black-eyed peas with canned or frozen ones. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the dish.
2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute in place of heavy cream, and swap butter for olive oil to keep the dish vegan-friendly.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover creamy black-eyed peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
4. Can I freeze creamy black-eyed peas?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.