Texas Black-Eyed Peas And Rice
Hearty Texas black-eyed peas and rice combine smoky bacon, savory barbecue sauce, and tender peas, creating a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place peas, chopped onions, water, and salt in a large saucepan.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add rice and continue simmering until rice is tender, about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook bacon until crispy; remove from skillet and drain.
- Combine the pea mixture, barbecue sauce, half of the bacon, pepper, and bacon drippings in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining bacon slices.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. You can also use canned black-eyed peas for a quicker option; reduce cooking time. If you prefer, swap the barbecue sauce for a spicy salsa for a different twist. Remember to stir the mixture occasionally while simmering to avoid sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Black-Eyed Peas and Rice alongside cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Broiled Pork Chops for a hearty dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor. It's also a great side dish for barbecues or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, covered, for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Black-Eyed Peas And Rice contains roughly 189 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 584mg per serving (25% 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 fresh black-eyed peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh black-eyed peas. However, you will need to cook them longer until they are tender, typically around 45-60 minutes. Just ensure to soak them beforehand to reduce cooking time.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free barbecue sauce and ensure the rice is certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without worry.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
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).