Black-eyed peas are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. This recipe takes these humble beans to a new level with a spicy twist, making them perfect for any occasion. Follow this detailed guide to create a flavorful and hearty dish.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balancing the acidity of tomatoes)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
#### Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Step 1: Soaking the Black-Eyed Peas
1. Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water.
2. Place the peas in a large bowl and cover with about 3 inches of water.
3. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.
#### Step 2: Preparing Ingredients
1. While the peas are soaking, chop your onion and mince the garlic.
2. Open the can of diced tomatoes and set aside any juices.
#### Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
#### Step 4: Adding Spices and Broth
1. Pour in the canned tomatoes along with their juices.
2. Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken or vegetable broth and sugar if using.
4. Stir well to combine all spices.
#### Step 5: Cooking the Black-Eyed Peas
1. Drain the soaked black-eyed peas and add them to the pot with the tomato mixture.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
#### Step 6: Finishing Touches
1. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Let the black-eyed peas cool slightly before serving.
#### Step 7: Serving Suggestions
Serve this spicy black-eyed pea dish over cooked rice for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious, SEO-friendly recipe!
### Conclusion:
This detailed guide provides all you need to make a mouth-watering black-eyed peas spicy style dish at home. Perfect for gatherings or as a hearty side during the colder months, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor thanks to its spice and depth. Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices to create your perfect blend!