Black-eyed peas are a beloved New Year’s tradition across many cultures, symbolizing luck, prosperity, and good fortune for the upcoming year. This vegetarian black-eyed peas recipe offers a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for celebrating with family and friends.
Whether you’re embracing a meatless lifestyle or simply want a delicious, nutritious way to start the year, this recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors that will warm your heart and soul.
With a blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and tender black-eyed peas, this recipe is easy to prepare and customizable to your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate plant-based protein into your meal.
So grab your apron and let’s make a dish that’s as meaningful as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian black-eyed peas dish is not only rich in tradition but also in flavor and nutrition. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that fits perfectly into any New Year’s celebration.
You’ll love how the earthy black-eyed peas pair beautifully with aromatic herbs and spices, delivering a burst of taste with every bite.
It’s also incredibly versatile—whether you want to serve it as a main dish or a side, it complements a variety of other recipes. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and packed with fiber and protein, making it a wholesome choice for everyone at the table.
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like our Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe for another hearty, plant-based dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or collard greens
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander (if using dried peas)
- Bowl for soaking peas (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the black-eyed peas: If using dried peas, rinse them thoroughly and soak in water for 4-6 hours or overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Drain and rinse before cooking.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and carrot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add black-eyed peas and liquids: Pour in the drained black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and stir well.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 45-60 minutes if using dried peas, or 20-30 minutes if using canned, until the peas are tender.
- Add greens: About 10 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in the chopped kale or collard greens. Cover and continue cooking until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Season and finish: Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
For a smoky depth, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
To boost protein, add cooked quinoa or brown rice on the side. If you want a creamier texture, stir in coconut milk or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt (if not vegan) right before serving.
Feel free to swap kale for collard greens or spinach depending on what you have on hand. For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
If you prefer a chunkier stew, reduce the cooking time slightly and leave some peas whole. For a smoother, more stew-like consistency, use an immersion blender to partially puree the mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Fiber | 10 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Vitamin A | 60% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetarian black-eyed peas stew is perfect served over warm rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside cornbread for a traditional touch. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
For a festive New Year’s table, consider complementing this dish with our flavorful Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe tossed with pasta, or finish the meal with a sweet treat like our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.
Conclusion
Starting the new year with a bowl of warm, delicious black-eyed peas is a tradition that brings hope and positivity. This vegetarian recipe not only honors that tradition but also offers a healthy, flavorful way to celebrate.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible to cooks of all levels and invites endless customization.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish will fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and your heart with the promise of good fortune. Don’t forget to explore more recipes on the site like the Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe for cozy eats and celebrate every occasion with great food!
📖 Recipe Card: Black Eyed Peas New Years Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish traditionally eaten on New Year's Day for good luck. This recipe combines black eyed peas with vegetables and spices for a comforting meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell pepper until softened.
- Add soaked black eyed peas, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until peas are tender.
- Stir in kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 35 g
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