The Stuff
A hearty, flavorful dish combining black-eyed peas, tomatoes, minestrone soup, and seasoned ground beef. Perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add the cooked mixture to the canned black-eyed peas, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and minestrone soup.
- Season to taste with salt, pepper, or other preferred spices.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding chopped bell peppers or celery to the skillet when browning the hamburger and onion. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust the seasonings to your preference, and try adding a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions. It pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side for added crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a simple green salad or a bowl of Louisiana Baked Beans to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions; just cover to retain moisture and heat in short intervals, stirring between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Stuff contains roughly 729 calories, with 16g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1422mg per serving (62% 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 dish. This will require additional time and planning but will enhance the flavor and texture of your meal.
What can I do if I don't have minestrone soup?
If you don't have minestrone soup, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or tomato soup. You might want to add some Italian herbs like basil or oregano to capture the essence of minestrone. Alternatively, a can of vegetable soup can work as well.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
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).