Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas

This Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas recipe is cooked from dried beans with smoked kielbasa and thinly sliced collard greens.

The recipe is build on a flavorful base of pork belly fat, onion, garlic and lots of fragrant spices. The tomato sauce and bell pepper adds color and flavor then we add the collard greens.

It's said to bring good luck when consumed on New Year's Day. In the eyes of the Southern culture, black-eyed peas is more than just a delicious meal, it's an act or tradition and good fortune!

I grew up eating black-eyed peas but it wasn't until recently that I learned about this tradition. We (Brazilians) tend to eat every kind of beans that there is, so no surprise I am well familiarized with this particular variety.

Traditions, beliefs and superstition aside I can tell you that black-eyed peas make for one heck of a meal, especially when paired with smoked kielbasa and collard greens.

This is how I grew up eating black-eyed peas, perhaps a gift from the Africa influences in the Brazilian cuisine.

what does black-eyed peas taste like?

Black-eyed peas are creamy, earthy and mild however they are often cooked with strong spices and therefore become quite tasty.

They are somewhat similar to cannellini beans.

Both these varieties are often served with smoked sausage. The depth in flavor and different textures added brings out the best of its earthy flavors.

What you will need to make this instant pot black-eyed peas recipe;

1. first you will need you handy dandy instant pot. Mine is this 6qt, it's getting pretty old-looking and beat up but works amazing!
2. two cups of dried black-eyed peas which I actually had a hard time finding it in stores so I ordered this big 4lb bag on Amazon!
3. most of the ingredients are kitchen staples such as (spices) cumin, smoked paprika (go for the smoked paprika on this one!), chili powder and bay leaves. Onion and garlic to make a strong and flavorful base. Puréed tomatoes for coloring and red bell pepper.
4. for the liquid you can use water or broth. Honestly don't sweat it if you don't have broth, I only use water and there is plenty of flavor!
5. lastly are smoked kielbasa and pork belly fat. You can sub the pork belly fat for pancetta or bacon.

what to serve with black-eyed peas

Technically this recipe has all you need; protein, fiber, greens and carbs but to be honest, most times I serve my black-eyed peas with rice and a protein.

Here are some ideas to complete your menu:

Black-Eyed Peas and Rice is a delicious and complete vegetarian meal.

Cilantro Lime Brown Rice or this Garlicky Carrot Brown Rice

Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin or this Roast Chicken

Pan Seared Salmon or this Parmesan Crusted Salmon recipe

You can also easily freeze this instant pot black-eyed peas recipe or use it in meal prepping.

I made myself five meals for the week (two of them I froze!) with garlicky rice on the side. I used these awesome meal prep glass containers with two dividers.

I also have some glass containers with three dividers. It's a good idea to have different meal prep containers to fit all your needs 🙂

If you make this Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas recipe, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a star rating! I love to hear from you and always do my best to respond to all your comments. Also, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram for a special shutout and/or a chance of being featured in my newsletter!

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