I grew up watching my family cook black-eyed peas every New Year’s, promising good luck and warmth for the year ahead. When I first moved to the U.S., I longed for those comforting flavors but needed a quick, no-fuss method. This Instant Pot black-eyed peas recipe became my go-to, delivering that rich, smoky taste with zero hassle—even on the busiest days.
Table of Contents
If you want cozy, flavorful black-eyed peas that come together fast, this Instant Pot recipe is your answer. Whether you’re aiming for a simple side or a full Southern-style feast, this guide will take the stress out of meal prep. Similar to a creamy and simple butternut squash soup, with easy ingredients and a no-soak method, you’ll have a comforting dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and tradition, all without hours of simmering.
Why This is the Best Black Eyed Peas Instant Pot Recipe
- Offers a straightforward base recipe plus modular flavor upgrades for Southern-style and vegan versions.
- No soaking required—cut down prep time and still get tender, perfectly cooked peas.
- Includes a troubleshooting section to prevent and fix common Instant Pot issues, like the dreaded ‘Burn’ notice.
- Combines smoky, rich meats and bright vinegar for a well-rounded, irresistible flavor.
Key Ingredients for Amazing Flavor
Smoked paprika is the heart of this recipe’s smokiness, giving it that warm, layered depth. The beef bone and smoked bacon provide rich umami, creating a broth full of savory magic. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end brightens the whole pot, balancing the smoky and savory notes with a subtle tang that ties everything together.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 small Onion, (chopped)
- 2 Celery Ribs (Stalks), (diced)
- 1 Bell Pepper, (red or green)
- 2 small Bay Leaves
- 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme, (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 3 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Coarse Salt, (or 3/4 tsp table salt)
- 4 cloves Garlic, (pressed or minced)
- 1 Jalapeño Pepper, (seeded and diced small)
- 3 1/2 cups Chicken Broth, (low sodium)
- 2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 1-2 slices smoked beef bacon, (chopped)
- 1 small beef bone
- 1 1/4 cups Black-Eyed Peas, (dry*)
- 2 cups Collard Greens, (optional) (chopped in 2″ pieces)
How to Make Black Eyed Peas in the Instant Pot
- Turn on the pressure cooker to the Sauté function. When it reads Hot, add the olive oil. (This step builds the flavor base by cooking aromatics.)
- Add the onion, celery, bell pepper, and bay leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Add garlic and jalapeño. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, smoked beef bacon, and the beef bone. (The broth deglazes the pot, pulling up all that savory goodness.)
- Stir in black-eyed peas and collard greens, if using.
- Lock the lid, set the steam release knob to Sealing, and cancel the Sauté function.
- Press Pressure Cook/Manual and set to 17 minutes on High Pressure (or 14 minutes for firmer beans).
- When cooking finishes and the pot beeps, let it sit undisturbed for 15 minutes (Natural Release). Then carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the steam release to Venting.
- Open the lid, stir, and discard bay leaves and beef bone. (If there’s any meat left on the bone, add it back in.)
- Serve over rice for classic Hoppin’ John or enjoy as is—don’t forget cornbread to soak up the broth!
A Truly Smoky & Hearty Vegan Version
For a deeply smoky vegan twist, start by sautéing spectacular garlic butter roasted mushrooms in olive oil until browned, as their umami richness replaces meat flavor. Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari to boost savoriness. In place of smoked bacon and beef bone, stir in liquid smoke or chipotle powder alongside smoked paprika to mimic that smoky depth. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This version keeps all the warmth and comfort while staying plant-based.
Flavor Variations & Meat Swaps
| Meat Choice | How to Prep | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Ham Hock | Add whole with broth. | Deep, smoky pork flavor; adds gelatin for richer broth. |
| Smoked Sausage | Slice into coins and brown after the onions. | Very savory and smoky; makes it a one-pot meal. |
| Bacon | Chop and render fat at the very beginning. | Crispy texture and rich, salty notes throughout. |
For a Spicy Kick
Add extra diced jalapeños or swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder to bring more heat and complexity.
For Extra Veggies
Boost nutrition with spinach, kale, or diced sweet potatoes added before sealing the Instant Pot.
What to Serve with Black-Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas shine with classic collard greens and fluffy white rice to make authentic Hoppin’ John. Cornbread is a must for soaking up all that delicious broth. For a heartier meal, pair with tender pulled pork, a crisp green salad, or even a bowl of Ultimate Authentic Cincinnati Chili dressed in a sharp vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. Roasted sweet potatoes also bring a sweet earthiness that complements the smoky peas beautifully.
Meal Prep, Storage, and Reheating Instructions
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4-5 days | Store in an airtight container. Flavors deepen after sitting overnight. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Cool completely; freeze in meal-sized bags or containers for easy thawing. |
| Reheating | N/A | Reheat gently on stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of broth if needed; microwaving works too. |
Troubleshooting Your Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
What to do if you get the ‘Burn’ notice
Make sure to sauté the aromatics properly and add enough liquid before sealing. Deglaze the pot by scraping the bottom after sautéing to prevent residue that triggers burning.
What to do if your beans are still too hard
Increase pressure cook time by a few minutes and ensure your peas are not expired; older beans take longer to soften.
What to do if your beans are mushy
Reduce cooking time next batch or use firmer peas. Natural Release time can be shortened to avoid overcooking.
Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set Instant Pot to Sauté. When HOT, add olive oil.
- Add onion, celery, bell pepper, and bay leaves; sauté until onion turns translucent.
- Stir in thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Add garlic and jalapeño; cook 30 seconds, stirring.
- Pour in broth and balsamic vinegar; add chopped smoked beef bacon and the beef bone.
- Stir in black-eyed peas and collard greens (if using).
- Lock lid and set vent to Sealing; cancel Sauté.
- Pressure Cook on High for 17 minutes (14 minutes for firmer beans).
- Let pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, stir, and discard bay leaves and beef bone (add any meat from the bone back in).
- Serve hot as-is, over rice for Hoppin’ John, or with cornbread.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions about Black Eyed Peas in the Instant Pot
Can I cook black eyed peas in the Instant Pot if I soaked them first? How does that change the cook time?
Yes, soaking reduces cook time—set the Instant Pot to 10-12 minutes instead of 17, but you must reduce liquid slightly to avoid too much broth.
What is the best water-to-bean ratio for firmer beans vs. a creamier “potlikker”?
Use about 3 1/2 cups broth for creamier beans with a rich broth; reduce broth slightly if you want firmer peas and less liquid.
How do I double this recipe without causing problems in my Instant Pot?
Only fill your Instant Pot to two-thirds full. You may want to increase cooking time by a couple of minutes but avoid overfilling to prevent issues.
Can I use a smoked turkey leg instead of a beef bone or ham hock?
Absolutely! A smoked turkey leg adds great flavor and works well as a meat swap, just adjust cooking times as necessary for tenderness.
Conclusion: Get Your Good Luck On!
This Instant Pot black-eyed peas recipe is easy, delicious, and full of comforting smoky flavor that brings a touch of tradition to your table. Whether for New Year’s good luck or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s a winner every time. Did you make these for any special occasion? Let me know how they turned out in the comments below or ask any questions—I love hearing from you!
