Name: Pot Black Eyed Peas: 10 Flavorful Ways to Cook Them
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 Cups Dry Black Eyed Peas; 6 Cups Water; 1 Large Red Onion, thinly chopped; 3 Medium Carrots, chopped; 1 Cup Chard, chopped; 1 Tbsp Garlic Paste; 1 Tbsp Ginger Paste; 1 Tbsp Tomato Paste; 1 Can Diced Tomatoes; 2 Cups Coconut Milk; 3 Tbsp Olive Oil; 1 Lemon; 2 Bay Leaves; 5 Cloves; 1 Cinnamon Stick; 1 tsp Salt (or to taste)

Pot Black Eyed Peas is a dish steeped in tradition, heralded for both its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. This recipe features an aromatic curry made with tender black-eyed peas, vibrant spices, and cooked effortlessly in an Instant Pot. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your home as this dish simmers, providing not just sustenance but a comforting culinary experience. Perfect for gatherings, or simply to enjoy a hearty meal at home, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Pot Black Eyed Peas

This black-eyed peas pot recipe is not just easy to make; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick cooking time with the Instant Pot.
Rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy option.
Versatile enough to customize with various spices.
Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, ensuring everyone is satisfied.
Traditional Southern black-eyed peas dish, often considered lucky.
Simple black-eyed peas cooking instructions make it accessible for anyone.

This recipe falls under the Vegan diet and is a delightful Indian cuisine twist.

Ingredients for Pot Black Eyed Peas

Gather these items:

2 Cups Dry Black Eyed Peas
6 Cups Water
1 Large Red Onion, thinly chopped
3 Medium Carrots, chopped
1 Cup Chard, chopped
1 Tbsp Garlic Paste
1 Tbsp Ginger Paste
1 Tbsp Tomato Paste
1 Can Diced Tomatoes
2 Cups Coconut Milk
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 Lemon
2 Bay Leaves
5 Cloves
1 Cinnamon Stick
1 tsp Salt (or to taste)

How to Make Pot Black Eyed Peas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse black-eyed peas thoroughly. Chop the onion, carrots, and chard. Have garlic, ginger, and tomato pastes ready.
Step 2: Set Instant Pot to “Sauté”. Add 3 Tbsp olive oil. Once hot, add 2 bay leaves, 5 cloves, and 1 cinnamon stick. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add chopped red onion and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
Step 4: Stir in 1 Tbsp garlic paste, 1 Tbsp ginger paste, and 1 Tbsp tomato paste. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step 5: Add 1 can diced tomatoes and the rinsed black-eyed peas. Stir well.
Step 6: Pour in 6 cups of water and 1 tsp salt. Stir, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot to prevent a “Burn” warning.
Step 7: Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing”. Select “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) on High pressure and set the timer for 15 minutes.
Step 8: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes (NPR), then carefully Quick Release any remaining pressure by moving the valve to “Venting”.
Step 9: Open the lid. Stir in 2 cups coconut milk and the chopped chard. Allow to heat through for 1-2 minutes from the residual heat.
Step 10: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the curry. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve hot with rice or bread.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pot Black Eyed Peas

Keep these in mind:

This dish pairs well with rice or bread.
Adjust the spices according to your taste.
Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor significantly.

Best Ways to Serve Pot Black Eyed Peas

Enjoy your pot of black-eyed peas with:

A side of cornbread for a traditional Southern feel.
Rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
As part of a potluck spread that everyone will love.

How to Store and Reheat Pot Black Eyed Peas

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat in the Instant Pot or on the stove. This meal is perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Black Eyed Peas

What’s the secret to perfect Pot Black Eyed Peas?

The secret lies in soaking the black-eyed peas beforehand and using the right spices to enhance the flavors. This ensures a creamy texture and rich taste.

Can I make Pot Black Eyed Peas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Just reheat before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Black Eyed Peas?

Avoid overcooking the peas or forgetting to scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent a “Burn” warning. Following the cooking instructions closely will help ensure success.

Variations of Pot Black Eyed Peas You Can Try

Here are a few variations to consider:

Substituting spinach for chard for a different flavor.
Adding smoked sausage or ham for a heartier dish.
Using different spices like cumin or cayenne for a kick.

Whichever way you choose, you’re sure to enjoy this comforting dish!

Pot Black Eyed Peas: 10 Flavorful Ways to Cook Them - Pot Black Eyed Peas - main visual representation

For more information on the health benefits of black-eyed peas, check out this Healthline article.

Pot Black Eyed Peas: 10 Flavorful Ways to Cook Them - Pot Black Eyed Peas - additional detail

For tips on cooking with an Instant Pot, visit Food Network.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection.

To learn more about the cultural significance of black-eyed peas in Southern cuisine, read this Southern Living article.