Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas

Instant Pot black-eyed peas are a quick, flavorful dish packed with protein and fiber. Skip soaking and enjoy tender peas in under 30 minutes! Perfect for New Year’s Day or any time you want a hearty, satisfying meal.

Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas

Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas are a hassle-free way to enjoy this classic dish. The quick cooking time and ability to infuse deep flavors make it a must-try recipe for busy cooks.

Black-eyed peas have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Whether you're preparing a hearty meal for New Year's Day or craving a comforting side dish, cooking black-eyed peas in an Instant Pot is a game-changer. This method ensures tender, flavorful peas in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional cooking methods.

Why is a Pressure Cooker Ideal for Black Eyed Peas?

The sealed cooking environment of the Instant Pot locks in spices and flavors, resulting in a rich and aromatic dish. Plus, its programmable settings ensure a foolproof cooking experience, ideal for beginners and busy cooks alike.

Do I Have to Soak the Black Eyed Peas First?

Nope! Because these are made in the Instant Pot, no soaking is necessary. Just a quick rinse! Of course, if you do feel strongly about soaking them, you're more than welcome!

Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas Add-Ins and Variations

Cooking black-eyed peas offers endless opportunities to get creative with flavors and textures. Here are some additions and variations to elevate this versatile dish:

• Bacon - The bacon can be cooked right in with the black eyed peas, like ham, or you can cook it until crispy and crumble it on top when serving.
• Sausage - Add smoked sausage or turkey for a greater depth of flavor.
• Greens - Stir in collard greens, kale, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Peppers - Add diced bell peppers for sweetness or jalapeños for heat.
• Tomatoes - Mix in crushed or diced tomatoes for a stew-like consistency. Be sure to stir these in at the end after the beans are cooked as sometimes the acidity of tomatoes affects the cooking of beans.
• Vegetarian - Use vegetable broth or water and skip the ham! You can add extra veggies or vegetable bouillon to increase the flavor!
• Cajun Seasoning - For a zesty Southern twist, sprinkle in Cajun or Creole spices. My go-to is Tony Chachere's, the original or the new less-salt version.
• Fresh Herbs - Finish with chopped parsley, cilantro, or thyme for freshness.
• Spicy Kick - Add cayenne, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for extra heat.

How to Serve Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas

Instant Pot black-eyed peas are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re aiming for a comforting meal or a festive spread, here are some serving ideas to inspire you:

• New Year's Tradition - Combine with collard greens and cornbread to celebrate good luck and prosperity in the new year.
• Classic Southern Meal - Serve it the southern way with homemade skillet cornbread, greens (such as collard greens, mustard greens, or kale), and a protein of your choice such as ham, pork chops, or oven fried chicken.
• Rice and Beans - Spoon the black-eyed peas over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a simple and satisfying dish. Add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Side Dish - Use black-eyed peas as a side for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or barbecue. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Soup or Stew - Combine the black-eyed peas with additional vegetables, such as tomatoes with their juices, and broth to create a hearty soup. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Salad - Toss cooled black-eyed peas with diced bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing bean salad. Or serve cooled beans on top of your favorite green salad to add protein and fiber and make it more filling.
• Tacos or Burrito Bowls - Add seasoned black-eyed peas to tortillas or a bowl with your favorite taco meat, rice, salsa, cheese, and avocado for a Tex-Mex twist.

More Instant Pot Recipes You'll Love

• Instant Pot Mac and Cheese - Creamy, cheesy comfort food made effortlessly in one pot. Ready in minutes, it's perfect for quick meals, customizable with add-ins, and loved by kids and adults alike!
• Instant Pot Sloppy Joes - Quick, flavorful sandwich filling made with seasoned ground beef in a tangy-sweet sauce.
• Instant Pot Kalua Pork - A Hawaiian-inspired dish of tender, smoky shredded pork made quickly with minimal effort. Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or rice bowls, it’s flavorful, versatile, and easy to make!
• Instant Pot Salisbury Steak - Featuring tender beef patties smothered in rich onion and mushroom gravy. Quick to make, it's a hearty, flavorful comfort food
• Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas - Quick, flavorful meal with juicy chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions seasoned perfectly. Easy to make and great for tacos, bowls, or wraps—perfect for busy nights!

Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas Video