Ready in 40 minutes, this vegan black-eyed peas recipe transforms humble legumes into a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s infused with smoky spices. It’s also easily customizable—pack it with additional veggies or use it as a topping for your grain bowl. The options are endless!
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If you’re craving a comforting bowl of goodness that’s both vegan and packed with flavor, look no further than our vegan black-eyed peas recipe. This one-pot wonder transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying side that needs just 15 minutes of prep.
The combination of the Cajun holy trinity, smoky spices and protein-rich black-eyed peas creates a satisfying meal that’s incredibly comforting. Plus, this versatile dish can stand alone, be paired with your favorite grains or even star in tacos or burrito wraps.
Vegan Black-Eyed Peas Ingredients
- Olive oil: Olive oil is the fat you’ll use to saute the vegetables, adding richness and depth to the overall flavor. Here are the best olive oil brands to use.
- Onion, red pepper and celery: Known as the “holy trinity” in Cajun cooking, this trio of vegetables form the aromatic base of the black-eyed peas recipe.
- Garlic: Minced garlic packs a punch of aromatic flavor that adds complexity to the black-eyed peas.
- Smoked paprika: This spice brings a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the black-eyed peas, giving a meatlike taste without the meat.
- Spices: Dried oregano, thyme and cayenne add depth and a subtle heat to the dish.
- Black-eyed peas: The star of this vegan dish, these protein-rich legumes are soft yet firm, offering a mild flavor that absorbs the rich seasonings. Using canned black-eyed peas saves time.
- Vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds moisture and depth to the dish. Here’s how to make your own broth at home.
- Soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a characteristic umami flavor and saltiness, adding another layer of savory flavor that complements the smoky spices. For a gluten-free option, try using tamari sauce.
- Liquid smoke: Liquid smoke infuses a bold, smoky flavor into the dish, traditionally provided by ham or bacon in non-vegan recipes.
- Parsley: A garnish that adds freshness and color to the dish, parsley brightens the savory and smoky notes in these vegan black-eyed peas.
Directions
Step 1: Saute the vegetables
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In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red pepper and celery. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, four to five minutes.
Step 2: Add the garlic and spices
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Stir in the minced garlic, salt, smoked paprika, oregano, pepper, thyme and cayenne. Stir and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the spices are well incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the remaining ingredients
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Stir in the drained black-eyed peas,