When it comes to celebrating Juneteenth, one dish that never fails to steal the show is Juneteenth black-eyed peas. These delightful legumes are more than just a side; they bring a sense of history, flavor, and texture that’s hard to resist. Peach tart with almond cream With their creamy consistency and earthy taste, black-eyed peas have a way of warming your heart and home.
Imagine gathering around the table, the aroma of garlic and spices wafting through the air as your loved ones dig into a heaping bowl of these tasty peas. Memories flood back of family gatherings where laughter mingled with stories, and every bite held a piece of culture. Whether you’re serving them at a festive barbecue or enjoying them on a cozy weeknight, Juneteenth black-eyed peas will undoubtedly elevate any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Juneteenth black-eyed peas
- This amazing Juneteenth black-eyed peas offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Juneteenth black-eyed peas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Juneteenth black-eyed peas:
- Black-Eyed Peas: Use dried or canned black-eyed peas; if using dried, soak them overnight for optimal tenderness.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; finely chop it for even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor; aim for three cloves to pack a punch.
- Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness in your dish.
- Bell Pepper: Add color and crunch with diced bell peppers; red or green works well.
- Seasoning Blend: Use a mix of salt, pepper, cayenne, and smoked paprika for that tasty kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Juneteenth black-eyed peas
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Juneteenth black-eyed peas:
Step 1: Soak the Peas
If you’re using dried black-eyed peas, rinse them under cold water and soak them overnight in plenty of water. This softens them up nicely for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil along with chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until tender—about five minutes—and let those scents envelop your kitchen like a warm hug.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Don’t walk away—burned garlic smells like regret!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add your soaked (or canned) black-eyed peas into the pot along with vegetable broth and seasonings. Stir everything together so the flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes if using dried peas (or until tender). If using canned, simmer just long enough to heat through.
Step 6: Serve
Once cooked to perfection, taste your creation! Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot with cornbread or over rice for an unbeatable combination.
So there you have it—a comforting bowl of Juneteenth black-eyed peas that’s not only delicious but steeped in tradition! Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy every bite while sharing stories that can only be told over good food.
You Must Know About Juneteenth black-eyed peas
- This amazing Juneteenth black-eyed peas offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Juneteenth black-eyed peas Cooking Process
Start by soaking the black-eyed peas overnight for optimal tenderness. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then add spices before incorporating the peas and broth. Simmer until everything is perfectly melded together, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Add Your Touch to Juneteenth black-eyed peas
Feel free to swap out black-eyed peas for other legumes or add smoked sausage for a heartier dish. Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or paprika for a kick, and throw in fresh herbs for that extra zing.
Storing & Reheating Juneteenth black-eyed peas
To store, let your Juneteenth black-eyed peas cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to four days or can be frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Juneteenth black-eyed peas
- This amazing Juneteenth black-eyed peas offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Sometimes, my friends ask how I manage to get my black-eyed peas so creamy and delicious. After years of practice, I’ve learned that patience is key—let them simmer long enough to soak up all those flavors!
FAQs About Juneteenth black-eyed peas
What is Juneteenth black-eyed peas?
Juneteenth black-eyed peas are a traditional dish served during the Juneteenth celebration, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. This dish symbolizes good luck and prosperity, making it a staple for many families on this historic day. The recipe typically involves cooking black-eyed peas with flavorful ingredients such as onions, garlic, and spices, often served alongside cornbread or rice. Eating black-eyed peas on Juneteenth is not just about flavor; it reflects cultural heritage and connection to African American history.
How do I prepare Juneteenth black-eyed peas?
Preparing Juneteenth black-eyed peas is simple yet rewarding. Start by rinsing the dried peas and soaking them overnight if you prefer a quicker cooking time. In a pot, sauté onions and garlic in oil until fragrant. Add the soaked peas along with vegetable broth or water, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. Fresh peach salsa Refreshing peach mint water Let them simmer until tender, usually around 30-40 minutes. You can also add ingredients like ham hocks for extra flavor if desired.
What are traditional sides for Juneteenth black-eyed peas?
Traditional sides that pair well with Juneteenth black-eyed peas include cornbread, collard greens, and fried chicken. These dishes create a hearty meal that celebrates African American culture and traditions. Cornbread adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the peas while collard greens offer a nutritious green option. Sweet and spicy BBQ sauce Fried chicken provides a crispy texture that complements the softness of the beans perfectly.
Can I make vegan Juneteenth black-eyed peas?
Absolutely! Making vegan Juneteenth black-eyed peas is easy and delicious. Simply omit any meat products like ham hocks or bacon from your recipe. Instead, use vegetable broth for cooking and enhance flavors with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that rich taste. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves will also elevate the dish without compromising its essence, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy during the celebration.
Conclusion for Juneteenth black-eyed peas
In conclusion, Juneteenth black-eyed peas hold significant meaning and tradition within African American culture. This dish not only offers hearty flavor but also serves as a reminder of resilience and heritage during celebrations of freedom. Preparing these beans can be done easily with various methods to suit dietary needs; whether traditional or vegan, they remain a beloved staple at gatherings. Embrace this culinary history by enjoying Juneteenth black-eyed peas as part of your celebration each year.

Juneteenth Black-Eyed Peas
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Juneteenth black-eyed peas are a soulful dish that beautifully embodies heritage and flavor. With their creamy texture and rich taste, these black-eyed peas are enhanced by the aromatic blend of sautéed onions and garlic. Perfect for family gatherings or festive celebrations, this dish not only nourishes the body but also connects you to cultural roots. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and tradition that will surely bring loved ones together.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Rinse dried black-eyed peas and soak overnight in water.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil, chopped onions, and diced bell peppers. Sauté until tender (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in soaked (or canned) black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes if using dried peas (until tender). For canned peas, simmer just until heated through.
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: African American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg