5 Delicious Black Pea Recipes You Must Try

Black peas, a type of dried or fresh legume, are a versatile ingredient that offers a distinctive flavor and nutritional value. Known in some parts of the world as Puy lentils or Carlin peas, these little gems are not only delightful in taste but also packed with protein and fiber. Here, we delve into five mouthwatering black pea recipes that you must try to elevate your culinary adventures.

1. Smoky Black Pea Soup

A warm and comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe incorporates the smoky flavor of black peas with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black peas, soaked overnight
• 1 smoked ham hock or smoked sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse soaked black peas and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat some olive oil and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Introduce the ham hock or sausage, stock, bay leaf, and black peas into the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until peas are tender.
6. Remove the ham hock or sausage, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly ground black pepper.

🔍 Note: If using dried black peas, soaking them overnight helps reduce cooking time and makes them more digestible.

2. Black Pea and Quinoa Salad

Looking for a healthy and vibrant side dish? This salad combines the unique texture of black peas with the nutty flavor of quinoa for a light and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black peas, cooked
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ¹⁄₂ cucumber, diced
• 1 avocado, cubed
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon juice
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions, using water or vegetable broth for flavor.
2. Once cooled, mix quinoa with black peas in a large salad bowl.
3. Add diced red bell pepper, cucumber, avocado, and parsley.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light lunch option.

3. Black Pea and Spinach Curry

Spice up your dinner routine with this aromatic and hearty curry that showcases the earthy flavors of black peas.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black peas, soaked overnight
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, pureed
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 green chilies, slit
• Spices: 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp coriander powder, ¹⁄₂ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Pressure cook the black peas with salt until they are tender (about 30-45 minutes).
2. In a pan, heat oil, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions turn golden brown.
4. Stir in the tomato puree, spices, and green chilies. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
5. Add the cooked black peas and stir well to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Add spinach leaves and cook until they wilt.
7. Season with salt and adjust consistency with water if necessary.
8. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
9. Serve hot with rice, naan, or paratha.

4. Black Pea Burgers

Delight in the robust texture and savory flavor of these black pea burgers, perfect for grilling or pan-frying.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups black peas, cooked
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 egg or 1 tbsp flaxseed meal (for binding)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Buns and fixings for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse black peas until they are coarsely ground.
3. Transfer to a mixing bowl, add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, tomato paste, smoked paprika, and egg or flaxseed meal. Mix until combined.
4. Form the mixture into patties, about ¹⁄₂ inch thick.
5. Either bake the patties for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or pan-fry until golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

5. Black Pea Risotto

This Italian-inspired dish takes the creamy richness of risotto and infuses it with the bold taste of black peas for a unique dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• ¹⁄₂ cup black peas, soaked overnight
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¹⁄₂ cup white wine (optional)
• 5 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, cook black peas until tender (pressure cooker recommended).
2. In another pan, sauté the onion and garlic in 1 tbsp butter until translucent.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat in the butter. If using, add white wine and cook until absorbed.
4. Begin adding warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until each ladle is absorbed before adding more.
5. When rice is al dente, stir in the cooked black peas, Parmesan, and remaining butter. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Continue stirring until the risotto is creamy but not runny. Serve immediately.

In summary, black peas can be transformed into a plethora of dishes, from hearty soups to savory burgers, providing both nutrition and deliciousness. Whether you're looking for comfort food, a quick salad, or an impressive dinner, these recipes highlight the versatility of black peas in the kitchen. Don't hesitate to experiment with these legumes to discover new flavors and textures in your cooking!

Are black peas the same as black-eyed peas?

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No, black peas are different from black-eyed peas. Black peas (also known as Carlin peas) are small, black legumes, while black-eyed peas have a distinctive black spot and are larger and white in color.

How long do black peas need to be soaked?

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Black peas should be soaked for at least 8 hours or overnight to soften them, which significantly reduces the cooking time.

What can I use as a substitute for black peas in these recipes?

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You can substitute black peas with black lentils, green lentils, or even beans like cannellini or black beans, although the flavor and texture will vary.