Vegan Black-Eyed Peas

If you’re craving a comforting bowl of goodness that’s both vegan and packed with flavor, look no further than our vegan black-eyed peas recipe. This one-pot wonder transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying side that needs just 15 minutes of prep.

The combination of the Cajun holy trinity, smoky spices and protein-rich black-eyed peas creates a satisfying meal that’s incredibly comforting. Plus, this versatile dish can stand alone, be paired with your favorite grains or even star in tacos or burrito wraps.

Vegan Black-Eyed Peas Ingredients

• Olive oil: Olive oil is the fat you’ll use to saute the vegetables, adding richness and depth to the overall flavor. Here are the best olive oil brands to use.
• Onion, red pepper and celery: Known as the “holy trinity” in Cajun cooking, this trio of vegetables form the aromatic base of the black-eyed peas recipe.
• Garlic: Minced garlic packs a punch of aromatic flavor that adds complexity to the black-eyed peas.
• Smoked paprika: This spice brings a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the black-eyed peas, giving a meatlike taste without the meat.
• Spices: Dried oregano, thyme and cayenne add depth and a subtle heat to the dish.
• Black-eyed peas: The star of this vegan dish, these protein-rich legumes are soft yet firm, offering a mild flavor that absorbs the rich seasonings. Using canned black-eyed peas saves time.
• Vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds moisture and depth to the dish. Here’s how to make your own broth at home.
• Soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a characteristic umami flavor and saltiness, adding another layer of savory flavor that complements the smoky spices. For a gluten-free option, try using tamari sauce.
• Liquid smoke: Liquid smoke infuses a bold, smoky flavor into the dish, traditionally provided by ham or bacon in non-vegan recipes.
• Parsley: A garnish that adds freshness and color to the dish, parsley brightens the savory and smoky notes in these vegan black-eyed peas.

Directions

Step 1: Saute the vegetables

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In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red pepper and celery. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, four to five minutes.

Step 2: Add the garlic and spices

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Stir in the minced garlic, salt, smoked paprika, oregano, pepper, thyme and cayenne. Stir and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the spices are well incorporated.

Step 3: Combine the remaining ingredients

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Stir in the drained black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, soy sauce and liquid smoke. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure everything is well combined and heated through.

Editor’s Tip: Give the dish a thicker consistency by mashing some of the black-eyed peas with a fork.

Step 4: Finish and serve

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Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve warm.

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Recipe Variations

• Give it a spicy kick: To give these black-eyed peas some additional heat, add a diced jalapeño pepper with the other vegetables or increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Pack it with veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots, zucchini or tomatoes for added color and nutrients to this vegan black-eyed peas recipe. Chopped kale or spinach also work well—add them during the last five minutes of cooking.
• Make it a vegan grain bowl: Serve the black-eyed peas over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice for a complete, protein-packed meal.
• Give it a Creole twist: Add a can of diced fire-roasted tomatoes and a bay leaf for a New Orleans-inspired twist.

How to Store Vegan Black-Eyed Peas

Leftovers of this vegan black-eyed peas recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over medium heat—you may need to add a splash of water or homemade vegetable broth if it starts to stick.

Can you freeze vegan black-eyed peas?

Yes, vegan black-eyed peas freeze well! Store the cooked peas in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Vegan Black-Eyed Peas Tips

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What can I serve with vegan black-eyed peas?

These vegan black-eyed peas pair well with rice or cheesy cornbread for a traditional Southern-inspired meal. You can also keep things light and serve it with a fresh green salad.

Can you use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried black-eyed peas—here’s how we quick-soak beans. Cook them separately until tender before adding them to the recipe.

What are some good substitutes for liquid smoke in vegan black-eyed peas?

Smoked paprika or chipotle powder can achieve a similar smoky flavor if you don’t have any liquid smoke on hand. Alternatively, you could add a small amount of barbecue sauce or even a drop of vegan Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor in the pot of beans.