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Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas

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Black-eyed peas have been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, and this Instant Pot version makes it easier than ever to whip up a batch of this iconic dish. Perfectly tender instant pot black-eyed peas, with smoky bacon, savory sausage, and hearty collard greens come together in one pot for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re making it for New Year’s Day or as a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

instant pot black eyed peas

Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas

Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures every ingredient is infused with rich, savory flavor. No need to soak the peas overnight or babysit a pot on the stove—this hands-off method delivers perfect results every time. Plus, with minimal prep and just one pot to clean, it’s a win-win for busy cooks.

This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or rice and can be customized to suit your spice level. It’s a hearty, budget-friendly recipe that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

instant pot black eyed peas

Why Do People Eat Black-Eyed Peas On New Years

Eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day is a tradition in some cultures, particularly in the southern United States. The practice is often associated with the hope for good luck and prosperity in the coming year. The exact origins of this tradition are not entirely clear, but it is deeply rooted in Southern folklore and has been passed down through generations.

One popular belief is that black-eyed peas resemble coins, and consuming them on New Year’s is thought to symbolize the idea of financial prosperity. Additionally, collard greens, cornbread, or other foods may be included in the New Year’s meal, each carrying its own symbolic meaning. For example, greens are associated with wealth, and cornbread may represent gold.

While the specific traditions and beliefs may vary, the common theme across many cultures is to start the new year with a meal that symbolizes abundance, good fortune, and prosperity. It’s important to note that these traditions are often rooted in cultural practices and may vary from region to region.

Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas

What You Will Love About This Recipe

Quick and easy: The Instant Pot takes the hassle out of cooking black-eyed peas, making this a perfect weeknight meal.


Rich in flavor: Smoky bacon, savory sausage, and aromatic spices create a dish bursting with Southern charm.


Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and leafy greens, it’s a hearty, wholesome meal that’s as good for you as it is tasty.


Symbolic: Black-eyed peas are a traditional New Year’s dish believed to bring luck and prosperity.


Customizable: Adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to make it your own.

instant pot black eyed peas

How to make Black-eyed Peas in the Instant Pot

  • Turn your pot to saute.  Add your chopped bacon.  Allow your bacon to start to cook for a few minutes.
  • Add in your onions and green peppers.  Allow cooking until the onion is getting translucent. 
  • Add in your garlic. Allow cooking until the garlic is getting fragrant. 
  • Add in the paprika, salt & pepper.
  • Add in the chicken broth.
  • Add in the smoked sausage.
  • Add in the black-eyed peas.
Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas
  • Add in the collard greens.
  • Press the collard greens down a bit so they are somewhat covered under the broth. 
  • Add in the bay leaves.
  • Close the lid, set to sealing. 
  • PC on HIGH for 17 minutes + do a Natural Release.
  • Once done, give a mix and serve.
Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas
  • Enjoy!!
instant pot black eyed peas

Are Black-Eyed Peas Good For You

Yes, black-eyed peas are a nutritious food and offer several health benefits. Here are some reasons why black-eyed peas are considered good for you:

  1. Rich in Nutrients: Black-eyed peas are a good source of various essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, folate (important for cell division and DNA synthesis), potassium, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
  2. Protein Content: They are a plant-based protein source, making them an excellent option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, especially those following vegetarian or vegan diets.
  3. Fiber: The high fiber content in black-eyed peas supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. It also contributes to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
  4. Low in Fat: Black-eyed peas are relatively low in fat, particularly saturated fat, making them a heart-healthy food.
  5. Antioxidants: They contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and may contribute to overall health.
  6. May Help Lower Cholesterol: Some studies suggest that the soluble fiber in black-eyed peas may help lower cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health.
  7. Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Black-eyed peas contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and several B vitamins, which play important roles in maintaining overall health.
  8. May Support Weight Management: The combination of protein and fiber in black-eyed peas can contribute to satiety, helping people feel full and potentially aiding in weight management.

It’s important to note that the preparation and cooking methods can impact the nutritional content of any food. Boiling or steaming black-eyed peas is a healthier option compared to frying or cooking them in excessive amounts of added fats. Including a variety of nutrient-dense foods as part of a balanced diet is key to promoting overall health.

instant pot black eyed peas

Tips & Tricks

  • Don’t skip the sauté step: Sautéing the bacon, onions, and peppers enhances the flavor of the dish.
  • Use dry black-eyed peas: No soaking required! The Instant Pot cooks them to perfection in just 17 minutes.
  • Press down the greens: Ensure the collard greens are submerged slightly in the broth for even cooking.
  • Natural release is key: Allowing the pressure to release naturally helps the flavors meld together.
  • Make it spicier: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick of he
instant pot black eyed peas

FAQs

Absolutely! Skip the bacon and sausage, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.

Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or even mashed potatoes. Add a side of collard greens or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

instant pot black eyed peas
instant pot black eyed peas long pin
instant pot black eyed peas
instant pot black-eyed peas

Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas

Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas require no pre soaking and are ready to enjoy in about 40 minutes. Thanks to the delicious spices you will have the most flavorful bowl of black-eye peas to enjoy on New Year’s to bring you good luck!

Ingredients

  • 2-3 Slices Bacon, chopped
  • 1 Small Onion, diced
  • 1 Green Pepper, diced
  • 2 TSP Minced Garlic
  • 3 TSP Paprika
  • Salt & Pepper to Taste
  • 3 ½ Cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 ¼ Cups Dry Black Eyed Peas, rinsed in cold water
  • 1 (14 ounces) package Smoked Sausage, diced
  • 2 Cups Collard Greens, chopped
  • 2 Bay Leaves

Instructions

  1. Turn your pot to saute.  Add your chopped bacon.  Allow your bacon to start to cook for a few minutes.
  2. Add in your onions and green peppers.  Allow cooking until the onion is getting translucent. 
  3. Add in your garlic. Allow cooking until the garlic is getting fragrant. 
  4. Add in the paprika, salt & pepper.
  5. Add in the chicken broth.
  6. Add in the smoked sausage.
  7. Add in the black-eyed peas.
  8. Add in the collard greens.
  9. Press the collard greens down a bit so they are somewhat covered under the broth. 
  10. Add in the bay leaves.
  11. Close the lid, set to sealing. 
  12. PC on HIGH for 17 minutes + do a Natural Release.
  13. Once done, give a mix and serve.
  14. Enjoy!!

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 223Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 16mgSodium: 797mgCarbohydrates: 29gFiber: 7gSugar: 5gProtein: 15g

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