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Ina Garten Black Eyed Peas Recipe

Ina Garten Black Eyed Peas Recipe

If you want a comforting and healthy dish, try this Ina Garten Black Eyed Peas Recipe. Black-eyed peas are soft, creamy, and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family meal. It uses simple ingredients you probably have at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American Southern
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas rinsed and sorted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 carrot chopped
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 slices smoked ham or ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Optional Soak

  • Rinse peas and soak them in water for 4–6 hours. This reduces cooking time and improves texture.

Heat Olive Oil

  • In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrot, and celery. Cook until soft.

Add Garlic

  • Stir in minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, but do not brown it to avoid bitterness.

Add Black-Eyed Peas

  • Drain soaked peas and add to the saucepan. Stir to combine with vegetables and oil.

Add Broth and Herbs

  • Pour in chicken or vegetable broth. Add bay leaf and thyme. Stir gently to mix.

Season

  • Add salt and black pepper. If using smoked ham or paprika, add now for extra flavor.

Simmer Slowly

  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40–50 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Check Texture

  • Taste peas for doneness. They should be soft but not mushy. Add more broth if needed.

Adjust Seasoning

  • Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Stir well to combine flavors.

Serve Warm

  • Serve in a bowl as a side dish or over rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor; dried herbs work too.
  • Add smoked sausage or ham for a more robust, southern-style dish.
  • Cook peas unsoaked if you have time; increase cooking time to 1–1.5 hours.
  • Stir in chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and taste.
  • Serve over rice or quinoa to make it a filling main dish.
Keyword Ina Garten Black Eyed Peas Recipe