Black-Eyed Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring black-eyed peas, ground beef, and hot sausage, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare black-eyed peas according to package directions.
- Brown onions, ground beef, and sausage in a large pot; drain excess fat.
- Add cooked onion, beef, and sausage to the peas.
- Pour in the entire can of stewed tomatoes, including liquid.
- Add salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef and sausage with plant-based alternatives like lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also add diced bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference, and consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. This dish pairs well with cornbread or rice to balance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Black-Eyed Chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over a bed of rice, making it a filling meal. For extra flavor, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if the chili thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black-Eyed Chili contains roughly 338 calories, with 23g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), iron (123% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 554mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black-eyed peas. Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the chili. This may add extra time to your preparation, but it enhances the flavor and allows you to control the texture.
What can I serve with Black-Eyed Chili?
Black-Eyed Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or a side salad. You can also serve tortilla chips for a crunchy complement. For drinks, consider serving with iced tea or a light beer to balance the spiciness.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper, or include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers in the cooking process. You could also top the finished chili with hot sauce or serve alongside spicy pickles for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).