Black Eyed Peas Recipe For New Year’s

I am not from the South, however I have friends who are and they always eat black eyed peas for New Year’s.   Since black eyed peas are economical and easy to prepare why not make up some for New Year’s day. 

Black-eyed peas are actually beans. They are also quite healthy since they are low in fat, high in potassium, iron, and fiber. They are also a great source of protein.  For this reason they make a great dish for New Year’s day or anytime.

New Year’s Day Black Eyed Peas With Ham

1 pound dry black-eyed peas
2 cups chopped cooked ham
1 pinch garlic powder
2 onions, diced
1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes
salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Place black-eyed peas in large pot. Add enough water to fill pot  3/4 full. Add the ham, diced onions, and seasonings. Pour the can of tomatoes in a blender and blend until the tomatoes are liquefied. Stir tomatoes into the black eyed pea mixture and bring to a boil.  Cover and simmer on low heat for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the peas are tender.

If you are having guests over here is a delicious black eyed pea dip.

BLACK-EYED PEA DIP

1 1/4 cups cooked or canned black-eyed peas
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon cumin (or chili powder if you prefer a spicier dip)
1 1 /2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bunch of green onions, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Tortilla chips

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In a food processor, combine the peas, garlic, cream cheese, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt and pepper.  Process to desired consistency (we prefer it a bit chunky or if you prefer process until smooth).

Place the dip in a pie dish. Top with the shredded cheese. Bake about 20 minutes or until the dip is heated thoroughly and the cheese bubbles Sprinkle the green onions over the top. Serve with tortilla chips.

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