Black eyed peas are a popular legume that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. If you have some dry black eyed peas in your pantry and an Instant Pot, you can easily cook them to perfection in no time.

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that allows you to cook food quickly and easily. It uses pressure and steam to cook food, which helps to retain the nutrients and flavors. Cooking dry black eyed peas in the Instant Pot is a convenient option as it saves you time and effort compared to traditional stovetop cooking.

To start, you will need to soak the dry black eyed peas overnight or for at least 6 hours. This helps to soften the peas and reduce the cooking time. Once soaked, drain the peas and rinse them thoroughly.

Pro tip: To infuse some extra flavor into the black eyed peas, you can add some chopped onions, garlic, and spices to the Instant Pot before cooking.

Next, add the soaked and rinsed black eyed peas to the Instant Pot along with enough water to cover them. For every cup of dry black eyed peas, you will need about 3 cups of water. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the cooking time to 20 minutes on high pressure.

After the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure and open the lid. Your black eyed peas should be tender, but not mushy.

You can serve the cooked black eyed peas as a side dish, in soups, stews, or salads, or even as a main course. They are versatile and can be seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste. Enjoy!

What are dry black eyed peas?

Dry black eyed peas are a type of legume that belongs to the bean family. They are small, oval-shaped beans with a black spot on their inner curve, which resembles an eye. They are commonly used in various cuisines around the world and are particularly popular in Southern cooking in the United States.

Black eyed peas have a mild flavor and a slightly creamy texture when cooked. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and various essential nutrients including folate, potassium, and iron. They are also low in fat and cholesterol and can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Before cooking, dry black eyed peas need to be soaked to soften them. Soaking helps reduce the cooking time and neutralize the compounds that can cause digestive discomfort. However, the Instant Pot makes it easier and faster to cook dry black eyed peas without soaking. The pressure cooking method helps break down the natural resistance of the beans and results in tender and flavorful peas in a short amount of time.

Nutrition Facts Amount per 1 cup (160g)
Calories 200
Protein 13g
Fiber 11g
Folate 358mcg (90% DV)
Potassium 690mg (15% DV)
Iron 4.2mg (23% DV)

Why should you cook dry black eyed peas in an instant pot?

There are several reasons why cooking dry black eyed peas in an instant pot is a great choice:

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1. Time-saving:

The instant pot allows you to cook dry black eyed peas in a fraction of the time it takes to cook them on the stovetop. With the pressure cooking function, the peas can be ready in under an hour, compared to several hours of stovetop cooking.

2. Retains nutrients:

The instant pot uses sealed pressure cooking, which helps retain more nutrients in the black eyed peas compared to other cooking methods. This means you can enjoy a healthier dish that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

3. Even cooking:

An instant pot provides even cooking, ensuring that all the black eyed peas are tender and cooked to perfection. You don’t have to worry about some peas being undercooked while others are overly mushy.

4. No need for soaking:

Unlike traditional stovetop cooking methods, cooking dry black eyed peas in an instant pot eliminates the need for pre-soaking. This saves you time and allows you to prepare a quick and nutritious meal.

5. Versatility:

An instant pot can be used for various cooking methods, including sautéing, pressure cooking, and slow cooking. This versatility allows you to easily experiment with different recipes using black eyed peas, from soups and stews to salads and dips.

In conclusion, using an instant pot to cook dry black eyed peas is a convenient and efficient way to prepare a nutritious and delicious meal. Its time-saving capabilities, nutrient retention, even cooking, no-soaking requirement, and versatility make it a valuable kitchen tool for every black eyed pea enthusiast.

Step-by-step guide on cooking dry black eyed peas in an instant pot

Black-eyed peas are a versatile legume that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes. Cooking them in an instant pot is a quick and convenient way to prepare this nutritious ingredient. Follow these easy steps to cook dry black-eyed peas in an instant pot:

Step 1: Rinse the black-eyed peas

Start by rinsing the dry black-eyed peas under cold water. This will help remove any dirt or impurities that may be present.

Step 2: Soak the black-eyed peas (optional)

Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight can help reduce their cooking time and make them easier to digest. If you choose to soak the peas, place them in a bowl, cover with water, and let them soak overnight. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Step 3: Prepare the instant pot

Before cooking the black-eyed peas, make sure your instant pot is clean and in good working condition. Insert the inner pot into the instant pot base and ensure the sealing ring is properly fitted.

Step 4: Add the black-eyed peas to the instant pot

Drain the soaked black-eyed peas (if soaked) and add them to the instant pot. If you didn’t soak the peas, rinse them once more before adding them to the instant pot.

Step 5: Add liquid and seasonings

Add enough liquid to cover the black-eyed peas in the instant pot. You can use water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth for added flavor. Season the peas with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer.

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Step 6: Pressure cook the black-eyed peas

Close the instant pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting on your instant pot and set the cooking time to 20 minutes. The instant pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking time starts.

Step 7: Natural release and serve

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully move the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure. Once the pressure is fully released, open the instant pot lid and check the doneness of the black-eyed peas. They should be tender and cooked through.

Your cooked black-eyed peas are now ready to be used in your favorite recipes! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious black-eyed peas!

Important tips for cooking dry black eyed peas in an instant pot

If you’re looking to cook dry black eyed peas in an instant pot, there are a few important tips to keep in mind to ensure they turn out perfectly cooked every time. These tips will help you achieve tender and flavorful black eyed peas that are ready to be enjoyed in a variety of dishes.

1. Soaking the black eyed peas

Before cooking the black eyed peas in your instant pot, it is recommended to soak them overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. Soaking the peas helps to soften them, reduce cooking time, and make them more digestible. Simply place the dried black eyed peas in a bowl, cover them with water, and let them soak until they have expanded and become plump.

2. Rinse and drain the soaked peas

After soaking the black eyed peas, it is important to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Drain the soaked peas using a colander, and give them a final rinse before adding them to your instant pot.

3. Proper water-to-pea ratio

To ensure that the black eyed peas cook evenly and have the right texture, it is essential to use the correct water-to-pea ratio. For every cup of dried black eyed peas, use about 3 cups of water or broth. This ratio will help to create a flavorful cooking liquid and prevent the peas from becoming too mushy.

4. Adjust cooking time

When using an instant pot, you can adjust the cooking time to suit your preference. For firmer black eyed peas, cook them for around 8-10 minutes on high pressure. If you prefer them to be softer, increase the cooking time to 12-15 minutes. Remember to allow for natural pressure release for at least 10 minutes before opening the instant pot.

Keep these important tips in mind when cooking dry black eyed peas in an instant pot and enjoy the delicious results in your favorite recipes!

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Delicious recipes using cooked dry black eyed peas

Once you have cooked your dry black eyed peas in an Instant Pot, there are endless delicious recipes you can create using these tender and flavorful legumes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Black Eyed Pea Salad: Toss cooked black eyed peas with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and parsley. Dress with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  • Black Eyed Pea Soup: Simmer cooked black eyed peas with vegetable broth, diced carrots, celery, onions, and garlic. Season with herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Serve hot with crusty bread.
  • Black Eyed Pea Curry: Sauté cooked black eyed peas with onions, garlic, ginger, and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Add coconut milk and simmer until the flavors meld together. Serve over steamed rice or with naan bread.
  • Black Eyed Pea Dip: Blend cooked black eyed peas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Season with salt and serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks.
  • Black Eyed Pea Casserole: Layer cooked black eyed peas with diced bell peppers, corn kernels, cooked rice, and shredded cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

These are just a few examples of the delicious recipes you can create using cooked dry black eyed peas. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavors to suit your taste.

FAQ

How long does it take to cook dry black eyed peas in an instant pot?

It takes about 20-25 minutes to cook dry black eyed peas in an instant pot.

Do I need to soak black eyed peas before cooking them in an instant pot?

Soaking black eyed peas for at least 4 hours or overnight is recommended, but not necessary. If you don’t soak them, you can still cook them in the instant pot, but it may take longer.

What other ingredients can I add to the black eyed peas for additional flavor?

You can add ingredients like chopped onions, garlic, bell peppers, smoked sausage, bacon, ham, or spices like cumin, paprika, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor of the black eyed peas.

Can I freeze the cooked black eyed peas?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked black eyed peas for up to 6 months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to label and date the container.

Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dry ones?

Yes, you can use canned black eyed peas instead of dry ones. However, the cooking time will be much shorter as the canned peas are already cooked. You can simply warm them up in the instant pot for a few minutes.

Can I cook dry black eyed peas in an instant pot?

Yes, you can cook dry black eyed peas in an instant pot. It is a quick and convenient way to cook them.