Black Eyed Pea Recipes Vegetarian Lovers Will Enjoy

Black eyed peas are a fantastic ingredient to keep in your pantry when looking for hearty, nutritious, and comforting vegetarian meals. These little legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and a range of essential nutrients that make them ideal for plant-based diets.

Whether you’re new to cooking with black eyed peas or a seasoned legume lover, there are countless delicious ways to incorporate them into your meals. From stews and salads to curries and patties, black eyed peas can add a delightful texture and earthiness that elevates simple vegetarian dishes into something truly special.

In this post, we’ll explore some vibrant and easy-to-make vegetarian black eyed pea recipes that are sure to impress. Each recipe is designed to be wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

Plus, you’ll find helpful cooking tips, nutrition facts, and serving suggestions to make these dishes your new favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Black eyed peas are not only affordable and widely available, but they also bring a unique nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of spices and vegetables. These recipes are:

• Rich in plant-based protein, making them perfect for vegetarians and vegans looking to boost their protein intake.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
• Versatile enough to be adapted into soups, salads, fritters, and even dips.
• Simple to prepare with common pantry ingredients and minimal fuss.
• Deliciously satisfying – perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Black Eyed Pea Curry

• 1 cup dried black eyed peas (or 2 cups canned, drained and rinsed)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Black Eyed Pea and Veggie Salad

• 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Black Eyed Pea Patties

• 1 1/2 cups cooked black eyed peas
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1/4 cup grated carrot
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil for frying

Equipment

• Large bowl for soaking black eyed peas (if using dried)
• Large pot or pressure cooker
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or food processor (for patties)
• Frying pan or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Black Eyed Pea Curry

1. Soak the dried black eyed peas overnight in plenty of water. If using canned peas, skip this step.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked peas, then add them to a large pot with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender. Alternatively, cook in a pressure cooker for 15-20 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and toast them until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Add chopped tomatoes and cook down until soft and mushy, about 5 minutes.
7. Mix in turmeric, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook spices for 1-2 minutes to release their aroma.
8. Add cooked black eyed peas along with the cooking liquid or vegetable broth. Stir well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to thicken.
9. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Black Eyed Pea and Veggie Salad

1. Combine black eyed peas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and herbs in a large bowl.
2. Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Black Eyed Pea Patties

1. In a food processor, pulse cooked black eyed peas until coarsely mashed but not pureed.
2. Transfer to a mixing bowl and add breadcrumbs, grated carrot, green onions, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
4. Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry patties 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Tip: When cooking dried black eyed peas, avoid adding salt until they are fully cooked as salt can toughen the skins.

Variation: For a smoky twist in the curry, add a small piece of smoked paprika or chipotle pepper. You can also toss in diced sweet potatoes or spinach for added nutrition.

Tip: Black eyed pea patties can be baked instead of fried. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variation: Experiment with herbs like mint or basil in the salad for a fresh flavor change. Adding diced avocado or nuts can also add creaminess and crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Black eyed pea curry pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or warm whole wheat flatbreads like chapati or naan. For a lighter meal, serve the curry alongside a fresh green salad or cucumber raita.

The black eyed pea and veggie salad is perfect as a side dish or a light lunch. It also makes a great filling for wraps or pita pockets.

Add some crumbled feta or vegan cheese for extra richness.

Black eyed pea patties are delicious on their own or served in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce. They also work well as a protein-rich addition to bowls with grains and greens.

For more vegetarian recipe inspiration, try out these fantastic dishes:

• Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners
• Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love
• Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore

Conclusion

Exploring vegetarian black eyed pea recipes is a flavorful way to add variety and nutrition to your meals. These legumes offer a hearty texture and rich taste, making them a perfect base for curries, salads, or even crispy patties.

With their high protein and fiber content, black eyed peas keep you satiated and energized, supporting a balanced vegetarian diet.

Whether you’re preparing a warm comforting curry or a fresh vibrant salad, black eyed peas can be tailored to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding different vegetables, spices, or cooking methods to make these recipes your own.

For more exciting vegetarian dishes, be sure to check out additional recipes like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas. Cooking with black eyed peas is not only rewarding but also a delicious way to celebrate plant-based eating every day!

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