Description
A quick and hearty dish of black-eyed peas, perfect for New Year’s Day or a casual weeknight dinner, capturing the essence of tradition with modern convenience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas (about 2 cups, rinsed and picked over)
- 6-8 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred, adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 green bell pepper (cored, diced; optional)
- 1 celery stalk (diced; optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish; optional)
- Hot sauce (for serving; optional)
- Cornbread (for serving; optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the dried black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water, picking out any stones or debris.
- On your Instant Pot, select the “Sauté” function. Heat the olive oil and toss in the chopped onion, diced bell pepper (if using), and celery (if using). Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Incorporate the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Continue to sauté for another minute until aromatic.
- Press “Cancel” to stop the sautéing. Pour in about 1/2 cup of broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Place the rinsed black-eyed peas into the pot, adding the bay leaf and thyme. Pour in the rest of your broth until the peas are covered by about an inch of liquid.
- Seal the lid, ensuring the sealing ring is correctly in place. Set the vent to “Sealing” and choose the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function, cooking for 20 minutes at high pressure.
- When the timer goes off, allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes. Switch the vent to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig. Stir the peas, then season with salt and pepper to taste. For a thicker consistency, use the “Sauté” function for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Notes
For creamier peas, blend a portion before serving. Consider adding chopped bacon or ham hock for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern