Brown Rice Black Eyed Peas Veggies Recipe Made Easy

Brown rice and black-eyed peas are a match made in culinary heaven, and when combined with a medley of fresh vegetables, they create a vibrant, wholesome, and satisfying dish perfect for any meal. This recipe not only bursts with flavors and textures but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a fantastic choice for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking a cozy dinner, this brown rice black-eyed peas veggies recipe is simple to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile.

With its earthy grains, creamy beans, and crisp veggies, this dish delivers a balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Plus, it’s an excellent base for experimenting with spices and seasoning, so you can tailor it to your personal preference.

If you love recipes that are nourishing yet easy to prepare, this one is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brown rice black-eyed peas veggies recipe is a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal that is both hearty and light. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it ideal for digestion and sustained energy.

The combination of soft black-eyed peas with nutty brown rice offers a satisfying texture, while the fresh vegetables add color, crunch, and a boost of vitamins.

Additionally, this recipe is:

• Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or experiment with different herbs and spices.
• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Perfect for meal prep: It reheats well and keeps for several days in the fridge.
• Comforting yet light: Ideal for lunch or dinner, whether you want a quick bite or a nourishing meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for a fresh zing)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander or sieve (if using dried peas)
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the black-eyed peas: If using dried black-eyed peas, rinse them well and soak in water overnight or for at least 6 hours. Drain and rinse again before cooking. Place them in a medium saucepan, cover with fresh water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until tender. Drain and set aside. If using canned peas, simply rinse and drain.
2. Cook the brown rice: In another pot, add the rinsed brown rice and 2 cups of vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
3. Sauté the vegetables: While the rice and peas cook, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini: Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables start to soften but still retain some crunch.
5. Season the veggies: Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors.
6. Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked black-eyed peas and spinach or kale to the skillet. Stir and cook until greens wilt, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Mix in the cooked brown rice: Add the rice to the pan and gently fold everything together until heated through and well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Finish with fresh elements: Remove from heat, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch.
9. Serve warm: Dish out onto plates or bowls and enjoy this nourishing, colorful meal!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of chilli powder or a dash of smoked chipotle spice.”

• Use canned black-eyed peas for a quicker version – no soaking or long cooking needed.
• Swap veggies based on season or preference: try sweet potatoes, green beans, or corn.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano during cooking for a different aroma.
• Make it a one-pot meal: Cook brown rice and black-eyed peas together in a slow cooker or Instant Pot with your veggies and seasonings for effortless prep. Explore more vegetarian slow cooker recipes here.
• Boost protein: Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds or pine nuts before serving.

Nutrition Facts

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a hearty main or a wholesome side. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed greens for a complete meal.

For an added protein boost, serve alongside grilled tofu or tempeh. You can also top it with sliced avocado or a drizzle of tahini sauce to add creaminess and richness.

For a festive twist, try serving it in warm corn tortillas with your favorite salsa, turning it into a vibrant vegetarian taco filling. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out more Asian vegetarian rice bowl recipes or explore cheap vegetarian recipes for families to complement this meal.

Conclusion

This brown rice black-eyed peas veggies recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying dish. It’s a versatile meal that caters to various dietary preferences and lifestyles, making it a valuable addition to your recipe collection.

Beyond its great taste, this dish provides ample protein, fiber, and vitamins to support your health and well-being.

Whether you’re new to plant-based meals or a seasoned cook looking for fresh ideas, this recipe delivers on flavor, convenience, and nutrition. Don’t forget to experiment with different veggies and spices to keep it exciting every time you make it.

For more creative and wholesome options, explore our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or dive into Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

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