Black-eyed peas are a hearty and healthy ingredient. Cooking them in the Instant Pot makes the process quick and easy. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, a special holiday, or just a weeknight meal, this Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas recipe will become one of your favorites.
This recipe is perfect if you’re new to pressure cooking or simply looking for a time-saving way to make a delicious and filling meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients, the steps, and some tips for the perfect black-eyed peas.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
To make this dish, you will need:
- 1 lb dried black-eyed peas (You can also use frozen or canned peas, but dried peas will give the best texture.)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (You can use water as a substitute, but broth adds extra flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (Optional, but adds a nice smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (You can use fresh or dried thyme.)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (Optional but helps with the richness.)
Preparing the Black Eyed Peas for Cooking
- Rinse the peas: Start by rinsing your dried black-eyed peas under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or debris from the peas. Make sure there are no stones mixed in.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add olive oil to the pot and let it heat up.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Add the seasonings:
- Sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme into the Instant Pot with the onions and garlic.
- Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Add the peas and liquid:
- Add the rinsed black-eyed peas into the pot.
- Pour in the broth (vegetable or chicken) and stir. Add the bay leaf and apple cider vinegar.
- Ensure the peas are fully submerged in the liquid.
Cooking the Black Eyed Peas in the Instant Pot
- Set the Instant Pot:
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “sealing.”
- Select the manual or pressure cook setting and adjust the timer to 25 minutes on high pressure for dried peas.
- Natural Release:
- After the cooking time is done, let the Instant Pot sit for 10 minutes on “natural release.”
- After 10 minutes, turn the valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully.
- Stir and Serve:
- Give the peas a quick stir. The peas should be tender and creamy. If the peas are too watery, you can turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to balance the flavors.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
- Soaking the peas: You can soak dried peas overnight to reduce the cooking time. If you soak them, cook them for about 20 minutes instead of 25. This will help them cook faster.
- Adjust the liquid: If you like your peas a bit saucier, you can add extra broth. If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the liquid slightly.
- Add bacon or ham: For a richer, more savory flavor, you can add diced bacon or ham to the Instant Pot when you sauté the onions. This adds a nice, smoky taste to the dish.
- Seasoning variations: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. You can use cumin, garlic powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Frozen or canned peas: If you’re in a hurry and don’t have dried peas, you can use canned black-eyed peas or frozen ones. Canned peas will take much less time to cook (around 5 minutes). Just make sure to reduce the cooking time and the liquid to avoid overcooking.
How to Serve Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:
- With rice: Serve your peas over steamed white rice or brown rice for a filling, hearty meal.
- With cornbread: Black-eyed peas pair perfectly with a side of warm, buttery cornbread. It’s a classic Southern pairing!
- As a side dish: These peas can be served as a side dish to complement other main dishes like fried chicken or grilled meats.
- With greens: If you’re making this meal for New Year’s Day, consider pairing it with some collard greens, which is another Southern tradition believed to bring good luck.
Meal Pairing Ideas
- If you want to make a full meal, pair your Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas with Pumpkin Banana Loaf Recipe for a sweet touch.
- For dessert, consider Earl Grey Cookies for a unique and flavorful end to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use dried black-eyed peas without soaking them?
Yes, you can cook dried black-eyed peas without soaking them. However, soaking them overnight can help reduce the cooking time and make the peas a bit more tender.
How long does it take to cook black-eyed peas in the Instant Pot?
Cooking time for dried black-eyed peas is about 25 minutes on high pressure. If you use soaked peas, cook them for about 20 minutes.
Can I freeze leftover black-eyed peas?
Yes! Leftover black-eyed peas can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I make black-eyed peas with ham or bacon?
Absolutely! Adding ham or bacon will give the peas a richer, smoky flavor. Add it when you sauté the onions and garlic for the best results.
Conclusion
Making black-eyed peas in the Instant Pot is a fast and simple way to enjoy this delicious, nutrient-packed legume. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, like New Year’s Day, or just as a comforting weeknight meal, the Instant Pot makes cooking black-eyed peas easier than ever.
With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can have a hearty, flavorful dish ready in no time. Plus, with endless variations, you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Enjoy!
