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Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas

Featured in Set It and Forget It Meals.

If you've got an Instant Pot sitting on your counter, this black-eyed peas recipe is about to become your new favorite Southern comfort food hack! I honestly couldn't believe how amazing these turned out - you just toss in dried peas with chunks of smoky ham and a mix of fresh veggies, and the pressure cooker works its magic. The ham infuses everything with this incredible richness while the peas get perfectly tender, creating that authentic Southern flavor that usually takes hours to develop. My grandma was skeptical about making black-eyed peas in under an hour, but one taste of how the vegetables and ham meld together changed her mind completely!
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Updated on Tue, 14 Jan 2025 20:51:26 GMT
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A bowl of hearty black-eyed pea soup garnished with fresh cilantro and diced vegetables, accompanied by a small dish of bread. Pin it
A bowl of hearty black-eyed pea soup garnished with fresh cilantro and diced vegetables, accompanied by a small dish of bread. | tastygusto.com

I love sharing my Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas recipe it's that perfect mix of Southern comfort and modern convenience. These peas come out perfectly tender every time loaded with smoky ham flavor and just the right seasonings. Whether you're keeping up the New Year's tradition or just want something cozy for dinner this recipe makes it so easy.

Quick and Easy Magic

It's amazing how quickly this dish comes together. Give me less than an hour and I'll give you peas that taste like they've been simmering all day. The best part is how flexible it is serve it hot as a stew chill it for a salad or add some greens for a hearty soup.

Everything You Need

  • Smoked Ham: 200g diced get the marbled kind it adds such richness.
  • Black-Eyed Peas: 250g dried pick through them first.
  • Chicken Broth: 750ml I use low-sodium to control the salt.
  • Water: 500ml helps make everything creamy.
  • Yellow Onion: 1 large chop it fine it melts into the broth.
  • Carrots: 2 medium they add such nice sweetness.
  • Bay Leaf: Just 1 makes everything taste richer.
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground is best.
  • Fresh Parsley: A handful chopped for serving.

Let's Make It Together

Get Everything In The Pot
Put all your ingredients except the parsley in give everything a good stir.
Set It Up
Lock that lid make sure it's sealed and set it to HIGH pressure for 15 minutes.
Let It Rest
After it's done let it release naturally for 20 minutes then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Time to Serve
Fish out that bay leaf give it a stir sprinkle with parsley and enjoy.
A bowl of black-eyed peas soup garnished with fresh parsley and diced vegetables, set against a blue background. Pin it
A bowl of black-eyed peas soup garnished with fresh parsley and diced vegetables, set against a blue background. | tastygusto.com

Mix It Up

Feel free to make this recipe your own. Try smoked turkey or sausage instead of ham. Toss in some kale spinach or collards at the end for extra nutrition. I love adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice right before serving it brightens everything up.

Make Life Easy

These peas are perfect for meal prep. Let them cool down pack them up and they'll keep in the fridge for 4 days or the freezer for 3 months. When you're ready to eat just add a bit of broth and warm them up however's easiest for you.

Perfect Pairings

Nothing beats these peas with some warm cornbread fresh biscuits or a side of collard greens. Want a bigger meal? Add some roasted chicken ribs or pork chops. Don't forget your favorite hot sauce or some fresh herbs if you like an extra kick.

A bowl of black-eyed pea soup garnished with fresh cilantro and diced carrots, served on a rustic table. Pin it
A bowl of black-eyed pea soup garnished with fresh cilantro and diced carrots, served on a rustic table. | tastygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Do I need to soak the peas first?
No, the pressure cooker eliminates the need for soaking dried black-eyed peas.
→ Why natural release for 20 minutes?
Natural release helps the peas finish cooking and prevents them from becoming mushy.
→ Can I use different meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with bacon, smoked turkey, or omit for vegetarian version with veggie broth.
→ How long does it take total?
About 45-50 minutes total, including time to come to pressure and natural release.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas

A hearty dish of black-eyed peas cooked with smoked ham and vegetables in the Instant Pot. Classic Southern comfort food made easy.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
50 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Southern

Yield: 6 Servings (6 servings)

Dietary: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 4 cups chopped smoked ham (1 1/2 lbs).
02 1 lb dried black-eyed peas, rinsed.
03 4 cups lower-sodium chicken broth.
04 3 cups water.
05 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (1 1/2 cups).
06 2 medium carrots, chopped (1 cup).
07 1 dried bay leaf.
08 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
09 Fresh parsley for garnish.

Instructions

Step 01

Add all ingredients except parsley to Instant Pot.

Step 02

Lock lid, seal valve. Cook on HIGH pressure 15 minutes (10-15 minutes to pressurize).

Step 03

Let pressure release naturally 20 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.

Step 04

Remove bay leaf, garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  1. No soaking required.
  2. Times may vary by pressure cooker model.

Tools You'll Need

  • Instant Pot or pressure cooker.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • None.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 380
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
  • Protein: 32 g