30 Black Eyed Pea Dishes Bursting with Flavor

Black-eyed peas are a Southern treasure, and these 30 recipes show how this humble legume can shine in a variety of dishes. From hearty stews to vibrant salads and crispy fritters, black-eyed peas add flavor and texture to every meal.

These recipes draw inspiration from Southern traditions and global cuisines alike, creating versatile dishes that are both comforting and creative. Packed with nutrients, black-eyed peas are perfect for healthy and satisfying meals.

Whether they’re paired with spices or simmered into rich broths, these legumes are endlessly adaptable. These recipes celebrate the heartiness of black-eyed peas while introducing new ways to enjoy them.

Discover dishes that make black-eyed peas a star on your table.

Southern Braised Chicken with Black-Eyed Peas

Southern braised chicken with black-eyed peas is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with the rich, hearty flavors of black-eyed peas. This recipe brings a cozy blend of savory seasonings, bacon, and greens, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug.

It’s the kind of dish that makes your whole kitchen smell amazing and satisfies your cravings for both protein and vegetables. Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, it becomes a go-to family favorite for weeknight dinners.

The addition of black-eyed peas not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of tradition, as they are often linked with prosperity and good fortune. This dish proves that comfort food can be both easy and nourishing.

The Best Black-Eyed Peas Recipe

The best black-eyed peas recipe brings all the elements of Southern cooking together, creating a dish that will have you coming back for seconds. Simmered with ham and bacon, these peas absorb all the savory goodness, making them tender and flavorful.

The subtle smokiness from the meat combines perfectly with the beans, giving them a deep, comforting taste. This recipe is a favorite for family meals, especially when served alongside cornbread or collard greens.

It’s the perfect way to enjoy black-eyed peas, making them not just nutritious but also delicious. Whether you’re celebrating New Year’s or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Cowboy Caviar

Cowboy caviar is a fresh, colorful dish that works as both a salad and a dip. Combining black-eyed peas with sweet corn, bell peppers, and avocado creates a mixture that’s both healthy and flavorful.

The tangy chili lime dressing gives it just the right amount of zing, making it a perfect accompaniment for chips or as a side dish for grilled meats. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or packing it for a picnic, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

It’s not just about great taste; it’s also about bringing fresh, wholesome ingredients into a simple, satisfying dish. This dish has a bright, vibrant appeal that makes it perfect for any occasion.

Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas

Slow cooker black-eyed peas are the ultimate in convenience and flavor. With just a few minutes of prep, this hands-off recipe allows the slow cooker to do all the work, simmering the beans with smoked ham and seasonings to tender perfection.

This method lets the flavors develop over time, creating a deep, rich broth that pairs beautifully with the beans. Great for busy days, this dish allows you to return home to a warm, hearty meal without much effort.

Whether served with rice, cornbread, or a side of greens, these black-eyed peas make for a comforting dinner. It’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe that never fails to satisfy.

Coconut Jerk Peas

Coconut jerk peas combine the creaminess of coconut milk with the bold, spicy flavors of jerk seasoning, transforming simple black-eyed peas into an exotic and satisfying dish. The tropical flair of coconut milk pairs perfectly with the heat from the jerk spices, creating a bold contrast of flavors.

It’s the ideal dish for those who love both spice and richness in their meals. This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Whether served as a main dish or paired with rice or grilled vegetables, it adds a vibrant kick to your meal. The combination of spice, creaminess, and hearty beans makes this dish truly special.

Black-Eyed Pea Nourish Bowls

Black-eyed pea nourish bowls are a wholesome, nutritious meal that combines the goodness of black-eyed peas with sweet potatoes, greens, and a zesty mango habanero sauce. The vibrant flavors of the sauce bring a bright, spicy contrast to the creamy beans and roasted veggies.

These bowls are as beautiful as they are delicious, filled with colorful ingredients that are packed with nutrients. Whether served for lunch or dinner, these bowls offer a filling, balanced meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors makes this dish exciting and unique. It’s a great way to enjoy black-eyed peas in a fresh, modern way.

Red Red (Ghanaian Black-Eyed Pea Stew)

Red red, a Ghanaian black-eyed pea stew, brings together rich, comforting flavors. The black-eyed peas are simmered in a tomato-based sauce with smoked pork, giving the dish a smoky, savory depth.

Spices like thyme, ginger, and pepper create a warming, aromatic flavor profile. This hearty stew is perfect when you want something filling and packed with flavor.

Whether served with rice or on its own, red red offers a fulfilling, flavorful experience. It’s a simple dish with complex tastes, perfect for anyone looking to try something new.

Tex-Mex Black-Eyed Pea Casserole

Tex-Mex black-eyed pea casserole is a fun and flavorful twist on the classic Tex-Mex flavors. This casserole combines black-eyed peas with cheese, bacon, and a variety of vegetables, creating a hearty, satisfying dish.

The layers of beans, cheese, and seasonings come together beautifully, making it the perfect meal for a crowd. Whether you serve it for dinner or as a side dish, this casserole is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

It’s quick to make and packed with bold flavors, making it an ideal weeknight meal. The Tex-Mex flair adds a deliciously zesty kick to the black-eyed peas.

Jamaican Black-Eyed Pea Curry

Jamaican black-eyed pea curry is a flavorful, aromatic dish with a rich coconut milk base. The black-eyed peas absorb the bold spices and creamy coconut milk, creating a comforting, satisfying meal.

Spices like curry powder, thyme, and allspice give the dish a warm, aromatic complexity. The dish is hearty yet light, making it a perfect meal for any time of day.

Served with rice or flatbread, this curry offers a unique, tropical flavor that transports you to the islands. The combination of beans, spices, and coconut milk creates a harmonious, delicious experience.

Sloppy Black-Eyed Peas

Sloppy black-eyed peas are a healthy twist on the classic sloppy joe. Made with black-eyed peas, veggies, and Cajun seasoning, this dish is flavorful and satisfying.

The peas are cooked in a rich, savory sauce that mimics the traditional sloppy joe filling, making for a hearty, plant-based meal. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier, meatless alternative to the classic.

The combination of beans, spices, and veggies creates a rich, savory filling that’s perfect for sandwiches or served over rice. It’s a fun, easy twist on a childhood favorite.

Black-Eyed Pea Soup with Sausage and Kale

Black-eyed pea soup with sausage and kale is a comforting, hearty dish. The rich broth is filled with smoky sausage, tender black-eyed peas, and nutritious kale, creating a balanced meal.

The beans soak up the savory flavors of the broth, making each bite satisfying and full of depth. Perfect for a chilly evening, this soup is filling and flavorful, offering a complete meal in one bowl.

The addition of kale adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the savory ingredients. The smoky sausage rounds out the flavors, making this soup a cozy, comforting dish.

Sausage and Black-Eyed Pea Hash

Sausage and black-eyed pea hash is a savory and satisfying dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of sausage, butternut squash, and black-eyed peas creates a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to fill you up.

The addition of a sunny-side-up egg on top takes it to the next level, adding richness and texture. This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy mornings or casual dinners.

The sausage adds a smoky flavor, while the squash and peas bring sweetness and earthiness. This hash is an excellent option for any time of the day.

Instant Pot Black-Eyed Pea Soup

Instant Pot black-eyed pea soup makes a rich, flavorful soup in no time. The pressure cooker does all the hard work, quickly cooking the peas to tender perfection while infusing them with smoky sausage and savory seasonings.

The addition of vegetables adds texture and brightness, creating a well-rounded, hearty soup. Perfect for a busy day, this recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours on the stove.

The Instant Pot ensures that the peas are fully cooked in a fraction of the time, making it a great option for busy weeknights. This soup is a perfect balance of flavor, simplicity, and convenience.

Creole Smoky Black-Eyed Peas

Creole smoky black-eyed peas have the bold, zesty flavors typical of Creole cooking. These peas are simmered with onions, garlic, and bell peppers, creating a savory base.

The smokiness comes from the addition of ingredients like smoked sausage or bacon, giving the dish depth and warmth. This recipe is perfect for those who love spicy, aromatic dishes.

It pairs beautifully with cornbread or rice, making it an ideal comfort food. The combination of spices and smoky ingredients elevates this simple dish into something extraordinary.

Lobia Masala (Indian Black-Eyed Pea Curry)

Lobia masala is an Indian-inspired black-eyed pea curry that’s packed with bold, fragrant spices. The curry is made with a variety of spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, giving the peas a rich, earthy flavor.

Served over rice, this dish is hearty, comforting, and full of warmth. It’s a great vegetarian option that is both nutritious and satisfying.

This recipe is easy to make and perfect for those who enjoy flavorful, spicy dishes. The blend of spices creates a complex, aromatic flavor that makes this curry stand out.

Black-Eyed Pea Chili

Black-eyed pea chili combines the familiar comfort of chili with the unique twist of black-eyed peas. The beans are hearty, tender, and absorb the rich flavors of the tomato-based broth, creating a filling and satisfying meal.

Smoky seasonings and a touch of heat add depth, making every bite more exciting. Whether you're serving it for dinner or taking it to a potluck, this chili will quickly become a favorite.

The addition of black-eyed peas adds a delightful texture and richness to the dish. This hearty, flavorful chili is perfect for cozy nights.

Mediterranean Black-Eyed Pea Salad

Mediterranean black-eyed pea salad is a refreshing, healthy, and colorful dish that combines the earthy flavor of black-eyed peas with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. The addition of pomegranate arils and feta cheese brings a delightful balance of sweetness and saltiness, creating a light, vibrant salad that can serve as a meal or a side.

The Mediterranean dressing, made with olive oil and lemon, enhances the freshness of the veggies and beans, making each bite bright and satisfying. This salad is easy to prepare and perfect for warm days or outdoor gatherings.

It’s both nutritious and flavorful, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. With its combination of textures and flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

Beef & Black-Eyed Pea Burrito Casserole

Beef and black-eyed pea burrito casserole combines the hearty flavors of beef and black-eyed peas in a satisfying casserole. The dish features layers of seasoned beef, black-eyed peas, cheese, and tortillas, baked until golden and bubbly.

Each bite is a delicious combination of savory beef, creamy beans, and melty cheese. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover beans and make a filling meal for the whole family.

It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The layers of flavors come together beautifully, making this casserole a comforting crowd-pleaser.

Cajun Black-Eyed Pea Pasta

Cajun black-eyed pea pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of black-eyed peas with the spiciness of Cajun seasoning. The peas are mixed with tomatoes, garlic, and a variety of spices, making each bite bursting with flavor.

This dish is easy to make and can be tailored to your spice preference, whether you want it mild or fiery. The black-eyed peas add a unique texture to the pasta, creating a filling and satisfying meal.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick, flavorful, and hearty. The Cajun spices elevate the dish, making it a real crowd-pleaser.

Hoppin’ John Casserole

Hoppin' John casserole is a comforting Southern dish that blends the classic flavors of black-eyed peas, cornbread, and ham into a savory casserole. This dish combines tender peas with fire-roasted tomatoes, chili, and onions, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you up and fills your belly. With a golden, crispy topping of cornbread, this casserole is the perfect way to enjoy black-eyed peas in a new form.

Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. The combination of beans, cornbread, and smoky bacon makes it a true Southern classic.

Sheet Pan Okra with Tomatoes & Black-Eyed Peas

Sheet pan okra with tomatoes and black-eyed peas is a simple, healthy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The okra and tomatoes are roasted until tender, and the black-eyed peas add an earthy richness that complements the vegetables.

The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a satisfying meal on its own or a perfect side. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time.

Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or alongside grilled meat, this sheet pan meal is both tasty and convenient. The roasted vegetables and hearty beans make for a delicious, comforting meal.

Southern Black-Eyed Pea Salad

Southern black-eyed pea salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s perfect for potlucks or casual dinners. This salad combines black-eyed peas with corn, bell peppers, and a variety of other fresh veggies, creating a colorful and healthy dish.

The homemade dressing ties all the flavors together, adding a tangy, slightly sweet finish. It’s a great way to enjoy black-eyed peas without cooking them down in a stew or soup.

The salad is light and filling, making it an excellent side dish or light main course. It’s simple to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients that everyone will love.

Black-Eyed Pea and Sausage Stew

Black-eyed pea and sausage stew is a simple, budget-friendly meal that packs a ton of flavor. The savory sausage complements the earthy black-eyed peas, while the veggies and seasonings bring depth to the dish.

Ready in just 20 minutes, this stew is perfect for those nights when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s great served with a side of cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

This stew is comforting and filling, with just the right balance of meat and beans. The easy prep and rich flavors make it a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Refried Black-Eyed Peas Dip

Refried black-eyed peas dip is a creamy, smoky dip that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. The black-eyed peas are mashed and refried with spices, then topped with cheese and baked until bubbly.

The dip has a rich, comforting flavor that’s enhanced by the addition of chipotle powder. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or veggies.

The creamy texture and smoky flavor make it irresistible, and it’s a fun twist on traditional refried bean dip. This dip is sure to be the highlight of your next event.

Black-Eyed Pea Fritters

Black-eyed pea fritters are a crispy, golden treat inspired by the African dish akara. These deep-fried bites are packed with flavor and texture, making them an excellent appetizer or snack.

The soft interior contrasts wonderfully with the crunchy exterior, creating a delightful mouthfeel. You can customize them with spices or herbs to match your taste.

Whether served with a dipping sauce or as a standalone snack, these fritters are sure to impress. The simple ingredients make it easy to prepare, and their savory taste makes them irresistible.

Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

Black-eyed pea hummus brings a fresh twist to the classic dip. This recipe uses black-eyed peas as the base instead of traditional chickpeas, creating a creamy, flavorful spread that’s perfect for snacks or appetizers.

The addition of garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice makes this hummus tangy and satisfying. Serve it with pita bread, veggies, or crackers for a healthy, plant-based treat.

It’s quick and easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients, and it’s a great way to get more beans into your diet. The creamy texture and zesty flavor make this hummus a perfect addition to any gathering.

Chettinad Black-Eyed Pea Curry

Chettinad black-eyed pea curry is a flavorful South Indian dish that’s both spicy and tangy. The black-eyed peas are cooked in a richly spiced curry with ingredients like tamarind, coconut, and curry leaves, giving it a unique, aromatic flavor.

This curry is a great meatless option, full of bold flavors that are perfect when served with rice or roti. It’s a dish that provides both depth and brightness, thanks to the balance of spices and herbs.

The combination of pungent spices and earthy beans makes this curry both complex and satisfying. If you enjoy spicy, flavorful dishes, this curry is sure to become a favorite.

Hoppin’ John

Hoppin' John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, ham, and vegetables. It’s often served on New Year’s Day for good luck but is great year-round.

The hearty combination of peas, ham, and rice creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The dish is comforting and filling, with just the right balance of savory flavors.

This simple yet tasty dish is easy to prepare and can be made in large batches for gatherings or family meals. Hoppin' John has become a beloved classic for its rich flavors and comforting warmth.

Mexican Black-Eyed Pea Dip

Mexican black-eyed pea dip is a cheesy, creamy dish that will steal the show at any gathering. The black-eyed peas are combined with cheese, sour cream, and zesty seasonings, creating a dip that is both hearty and flavorful.

Served with chips or crackers, this dip makes for the perfect appetizer or snack. You can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less spice to match your preference.

The creamy texture and savory taste make it a crowd favorite at parties. With its simple ingredients, this dip is both easy and satisfying.

Black-Eyed Pea and Sweet Potato Tacos

Black-eyed pea and sweet potato tacos are a unique, flavorful combination. The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the earthy black-eyed peas, creating a balanced taco filling.

The addition of pomegranate seeds adds a burst of color and a tangy sweetness that complements the other ingredients. These tacos are as healthy as they are tasty, with a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

Whether you're serving them for a casual dinner or at a party, these tacos will be a hit. They combine freshness, sweetness, and a hint of spice, making them a unique take on traditional tacos.