Black eyed peas are a delicious and nutritious legume that can be enjoyed in many dishes, from Southern classics to fresh salads and dips. Cooking dried black eyed peas from scratch might seem intimidating at first, but with the right steps, you can easily master this kitchen staple. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to cook dried black eyed peas, including tips for soaking, cooking methods, seasoning, and storage. Let’s get cooking!
What Are Black Eyed Peas?
Despite their name, black eyed peas are actually beans, part of the legume family along with chickpeas and black beans. They have a creamy color with a distinctive black spot, or “eye,” and offer a mild, nutty flavor. Rich in protein, fiber, iron, and other nutrients, black eyed peas are a healthy addition to any meal. They are especially popular in Southern U.S. cuisine, often eaten on New Year’s Day for good luck.
Preparing Dried Black Eyed Peas
Sorting and Rinsing
Start by sorting through your dried peas to remove any small stones, debris, or shriveled beans. Then rinse them thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer.
To Soak or Not to Soak?
Soaking black eyed peas is optional but recommended to speed up cooking and improve digestibility.
– Overnight soak: Cover the peas with water by a few inches and soak for 8 hours or overnight. This reduces cooking time and helps soften the beans.
– Quick soak: Bring the peas and water to a boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let them soak for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before cooking.
– No soak: You can cook them without soaking, but expect longer cooking times and more water usage.
How to Cook Dried Black Eyed Peas
Stovetop Method (Classic and Reliable)
- After soaking (or rinsing if unsoaked), place the peas in a large pot.
- Add fresh water or broth at a ratio of about 4 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of dried peas.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding more water if needed to keep peas submerged.
- Add salt near the end of cooking to prevent toughening the skins.
- Test for doneness: peas should be tender but not mushy if you want them whole for salads or dips. For creamy side dishes, cook longer until they start to break down.
Instant Pot Method (Fast and Hands-Off)
– Combine rinsed peas with water in a 3:1 ratio in the Instant Pot.
– Add aromatics like bay leaves, garlic, or smoked paprika if desired.
– Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
– Drain or use the cooking liquid to create a creamy sauce.
Slow Cooker Method (Set and Forget)
– Place peas and water (4:1 ratio) in the slow cooker.
– Add seasonings and cover.
– Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until tender.
Flavoring Your Black Eyed Peas
Black eyed peas are versatile and can be flavored in many ways:
– For creamy, smoky side dishes: Add garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, onion powder, and a bit of butter or vegan alternative at the end of cooking. Stir vigorously to break down some peas and create a rich sauce.
– For salads or dips: Cook peas until just tender, drain, and toss with fresh herbs, chopped onions, peppers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
– Southern style: Simmer with smoked meats like turkey wings or ham hocks, onions, garlic, and chicken stock for a hearty, flavorful dish.
Tips for Perfect Black Eyed Peas
– Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even cooking.
– Keep peas just covered with water during cooking to avoid drying out.
– Avoid adding salt too early; it can toughen the skins.
– Taste test regularly to avoid overcooking.
– Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 5 days and freeze beautifully for up to 8 months.
Storing Cooked Black Eyed Peas
Once cooked, let the peas cool to room temperature. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags in about 1½ cup servings (equal to one 15-ounce can of beans). This makes it easy to thaw and use in recipes later.
Cooking dried black eyed peas is simple and rewarding. With a little preparation and patience, you’ll have tender, flavorful beans ready to enhance any meal. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and dishes!