Although black-eyed peas cook faster than regular beans, I was in a hurry to get a big batch out for New Year’s Eve so I had to lean on my Instapot to get the job done. When my peas done cooking in the Instapot, I then added my pan-sauteed vegetables and additional spices. I love this method so much, that I think this will be a new go-to recipe!
The beans were perfectly cooked – moist, creamy, yet still intact. As I added my cooked vegetable mixture to the cooked peas, my veggies weren’t blanched out and mushy. The flavors were bright and tasty and this lucky side dish was a hit with my friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 cup dried black-eyed peas
- 6 cups water or broth (vegetable, chicken, or beef, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 Bay Leaves
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup diced flat leaf parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer.
- Add the peas, water or broth, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
- If using, add the onion, garlic, and olive oil to the pot. You can also stir in any additional spices or herbs you like.
- Close the lid and set the pressure valve to sealing.
- Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick pressure release to fully release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check the peas. If they are tender, they are done. If not, cook for a few more minutes on high pressure.
- While the peas are cooling, add 2 tablespoons oil or butter to a large saucepan. Saute’ 1 cup onion, parsley and 1 cup celery. Season with garlic and or onion powder.
- When the veggies start to look translucent, mix in a can of diced tomatoes with juice from a can.
- Gently fold in your cooked black-eyed peas and simmer for a few more minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as cornbread, rice, or collard greens.
Why Eat Black Eyed Peas for the New Year?
Black eyed peas are a traditional Southern dish often enjoyed on New Year’s Day. Sharing a meal with loved ones signifies togetherness and new beginnings.
Ultimately, the meaning behind black eyed peas as lucky food is personal and multifaceted. It’s a tradition rich in history, symbolism, and shared cultural experience. Whether you believe in the literal luck factor or simply enjoy the delicious dish with loved ones, black eyed peas remain a popular and flavorful way to welcome the new year.
So, feel free to enjoy your black eyed peas with a side of good vibes and optimism! They may not magically guarantee every wish, but they certainly represent a spirit of hope and a delicious start to a fresh year.
