Frozen Black-Eyed Peas Quick Version (Printable)

Tender peas simmered with aromatics and smoky spices for a classic Southern side.

# Components:

→ Legumes

01 - 2 cups frozen black-eyed peas or 2 cans (drained and rinsed)

→ Aromatics

02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Liquids

05 - 1½ cups vegetable or chicken broth

→ Seasonings

06 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - ½ teaspoon dried thyme
08 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
09 - ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
10 - 1 bay leaf

→ Optional Additions

11 - ½ cup diced tomatoes, canned or fresh
12 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
02 - Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
03 - Stir in black-eyed peas, broth, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, salt, bay leaf, and diced tomatoes if using.
04 - Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and flavors meld.
05 - Remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
06 - Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's genuinely ready in 25 minutes, which means you can make it while everything else cooks without any anxiety.
  • The flavor depth comes from smoked paprika and bay leaf, so it tastes like you've been thinking about dinner all day.
  • One pot, minimal cleanup, and it works whether you're cooking for yourself or a table full of people.
02 -
  • Don't skip the bay leaf even though it seems unnecessary—it adds a subtle complexity that tastes like you've been cooking this forever.
  • If your peas taste flat after cooking, it's almost always because you need more salt; taste before you assume the recipe is wrong.
03 -
  • Use good quality broth—it's the backbone of the whole dish, so this is not the place to cut corners.
  • The smoked paprika is non-negotiable; regular paprika misses the warmth that makes this taste intentional.
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