Black Eyed Peas Recipe Veg Recipes of India Made Easy

Black eyed peas, known for their unique texture and slightly earthy flavor, hold a special place in Indian vegetarian cuisine. Packed with protein and fiber, these legumes are not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile.

In India, black eyed peas are often cooked with aromatic spices and herbs to create comforting dishes that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or new to Indian flavors, this recipe will guide you through making a delicious black eyed peas curry that is hearty, wholesome, and perfect for any meal.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian cooking while being adaptable to your taste preferences. From the fragrant tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves to the rich tomato-based gravy, each bite offers layers of flavor that make this dish truly memorable.

Let’s dive into the world of Indian vegetarian cooking and explore a black eyed peas recipe that you will want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This black eyed peas curry is a fantastic combination of nutrition and taste. It’s rich in plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to add more protein to their diets.

The spices used, such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, bring warmth and depth without overwhelming the natural flavor of the peas.

It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it as a main dish with rice or flatbreads, or use it as a side to complement other Indian delicacies. The recipe is easy to customize by adjusting spice levels or adding vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra nutrition.

Plus, it stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup black eyed peas (lobia), soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil preferred)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water (or as needed)
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Pressure cooker or large pot
• Medium skillet or pan for tempering
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Bowl for soaking peas

Instructions

1. Soak the black eyed peas in water overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Cook the peas: In a pressure cooker, add the soaked peas and 2 cups of fresh water. Cook for 3-4 whistles or until the peas are soft but not mushy. If using a pot, simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender.
3. Prepare the tempering: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them crackle.
4. Add the curry leaves and green chilies, sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
5. Sauté onions: Add finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
6. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
7. Add tomatoes, turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders: Cook until tomatoes soften and oil starts to separate from the masala (spice mixture), about 5-7 minutes.
8. Mix the cooked black eyed peas: Add the cooked peas along with their cooking water to the pan. Stir well to combine.
9. Simmer the curry: Let it cook on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the curry to thicken slightly.
10. Add garam masala and salt: Stir in the garam masala and salt to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes.
11. Garnish: Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
12. Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt towards the end of cooking.”

You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste or nutritional needs. Try adding chopped spinach or kale during the simmering step for extra greens.

If you prefer a thicker curry, mash some of the peas gently with the back of a spoon.

For those who like a smoky touch, add a pinch of smoked paprika or dry roast the spices before adding to the dish. If you want to increase the protein content further, toss in some cooked chickpeas or kidney beans.

To make the recipe oil-free, skip the tempering oil and sauté the onions and spices in a little water or vegetable broth instead. For a spicier version, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili powder.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This black eyed peas curry pairs wonderfully with simple Indian staples. Serve it over steamed basmati rice or alongside hot rotis or chapatis for a complete meal.

It also works well as a side dish to other Indian favorites like Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe inspired flatbreads or vegetable pulao.

For a more indulgent meal, top the curry with a dollop of fresh yogurt or raita. You can also enjoy it with a side of tangy pickle or papad for added texture and flavor contrast.

Leftovers make a great filling for wraps or stuffed parathas.

Other Indian Veg Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Chicken Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes – A flavorful vegetable medley perfect for weeknights.
• Collard Green Casserole Recipes – Another nutritious and hearty vegetarian option.
• Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe – Rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying vegan stew.

Conclusion

Making a traditional Indian black eyed peas curry at home is both rewarding and simple. This recipe highlights the beautiful balance of spices that bring out the natural earthiness of black eyed peas, turning them into a comforting and nutritious dish.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this curry can be a staple in your vegetarian recipe collection.

Its versatility means you can tweak it to suit your preferences, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. For anyone exploring Indian vegetarian cuisine, this black eyed peas recipe offers a delicious, wholesome meal that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of India.

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