Instant Pot Plant-Based Black Eyed Peas
EVERY SINGLE NEW YEAR’S EVE MY MOM PLEADED WITH ME TO EAT A SPOON FULL OF BLACK-EYED PEAS, WHICH I WOULD REFUSE.
Fast forward years later and I am team black-eyed peas, I eat them all year round but nothing compares to a bowl of black-eyed peas on a cloudy fall afternoon.
Like most African American households, I was raised in a house where black-eyed peas were cooked with ham or turkey legs for the ‘flavor’. Now I’m not saying that my black-eye peas recipe is reminiscent of anything with pork, but I will say that my black-eyed peas recipe is what we use in my house during the holidays so clearly it’s a great plant-based alternative to a family staple.
I haven’t cooked black-eyed peas on the stovetop in years, but it’s certainly a viable option. This particular recipe is tailored for cooking black-eyed peas in an Instant Pot.
To get a rich flavor in your black-eyed peas I would suggest using the Better Than Bouillon ‘No Chicken Base’ or ‘Seasoned Vegetable Base’. Traditionally veggie broth will certainly do but these seasoning bases make a big difference when cooking plant-based soul food.
This dish pairs well with white rice and your favorite soul food sides such as greens, cornbread, or cabbage. It also pairs well with my mushroom and broccoli recipe (pictured below).
Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 C Dry Black-eyed Peas
- 3 1/2 - 4 C Water
- 2 TBSP Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 White Onion, chopped
- 3 Garlic Cloves, chopped
- 1/2 TBSP Better Than Bouillon No-Chicken or Seasoned Veggie Base
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 3 tsp No-Salt Seasoning Blend
- 2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 2 tsp Thyme
- 1 tsp Smoked salt
- 2 tbsp Liquid smoke
- 2 tsp Cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Instant Pot Settings - Bean/Chili 35 minutes, High Pressure - (slow-release) OR Select bean/chili setting of normal pressure for 30 minutes, keep the lid on for an extra 15-25 for a slow-cooked effect.
- As you instant pot begins to heat up add oil, onions, and garlic to the pot. Stir well.
- Next, add your water, Better Than Boullion base, liquid smoke, and seasonings. Stir well.
- Lastly, add your rinsed dry beans, stir well. Cook for the necessary time to reach your desired texture.
- Remove the bay leaves. Serve warm.