Southern Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Dip
This warm, hearty delicious dip recipe is a twist on the traditional New Year’s Day lucky black-eyed peas that will have even the black-eyed pea haters craving more!
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of black-eyed peas with liquid
- 16 oz. jar of chunky Picante sauce with preferred spice level
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 2 tsps. minced garlic or 2 cloves, minced
- 1/2 stick of butter
- Salt, pepper, cajun spice seasoning, or hot sauce
Instructions:
- First, chop the onion, bell pepper, and celery, and mince the garlic if necessary (I usually buy already minced in a jar for convenience.)
- Melt the butter in a saucepan and saute the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the canned black-eyed peas including the liquid and the picante sauce.
- Add the seasonings to taste. I use salt, pepper, and either Tony Chachere’s or Slap Ya Mama cajun seasoning for a little more kick. You can also use Tabasco or other hot sauce.
- Bring it to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- When the desired thickness has been reached, remove from heat and let sit for ten minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage
- This easy black-eyed pea dip can be served at room temperature in a large bowl. Or keep it warm in in a small crock pot on low (stirring occasionally).
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5-7 days in an airtight container.
- To reheat, zap it in the microwave at 50 percent stirring when needed (time will depend on the amount you’re heating). The dip will thicken up even more by the next day, which I personally really like.
Variations and options for black-eyed pea dip
- This black-eyed pea dip recipe is easily customizable to your personal tastes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Add more spice with red pepper, jalapeno peppers, or green chiles
- Add another flavor layer with diced onion or sliced green onions
- Make it more Mexican with a little chili powder or taco seasoning and a dollop of sour cream
- Add sharp cheddar cheese for a cheesy black-eyed pea dip
- Instead of chips, scoop it with fresh veggies