why make this recipe
Comforting Black Eyed Peas and Cabbage is a warm and hearty dish that brings a sense of home with each bite. It combines nutritious ingredients like cabbage and black-eyed peas, creating a delicious meal that is both filling and healthy. Packed with flavor and simple to make, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients, making it an economical choice as well.
how to make Comforting Black Eyed Peas and Cabbage
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped green cabbage
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes more.
- Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes. Season with smoked paprika, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce if using.
- Pour in beef broth, add diced tomatoes and black-eyed peas. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Simmer longer if a thicker texture is desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onions, alongside cornbread or crusty bread.
how to serve Comforting Black Eyed Peas and Cabbage
Serve this dish hot in bowls, and consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions on top for a lovely touch. Pair it with some cornbread or crusty bread to soak up all the hearty flavors. It’s also a great choice for leftovers – the flavors get even better the next day!
how to store Comforting Black Eyed Peas and Cabbage
Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing. Place the black-eyed peas and cabbage in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Comforting Black Eyed Peas and Cabbage
- If you want to add more vegetables, consider tossing in carrots or bell peppers while cooking the onions.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a vegetarian option for a lighter meal.
variation
You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add other beans or lentils to increase protein and variety.
FAQs
Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes, using canned black-eyed peas is a great time saver! Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make it spicier, you can add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños during cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal, as the flavors continue to develop over time.