Black-eyed Pea Dip I

Introduction

History

The use of black-eyed peas in cooking dates back centuries, with roots in African, Southern United States, and Tex-Mex cuisines. Traditionally, black-eyed peas have been celebrated for their good luck and prosperity, especially when eaten on New Year's Day. This Black-eyed Pea Dip I recipe is a modern take on the classic ingredient, transforming it into a creamy, flavorful dip that maintains its cultural significance while offering a fresh culinary experience.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, use high-quality, no-salt-added canned black-eyed peas. If you prefer a smoother dip, blend the ingredients for a longer period. For those who enjoy a bit of texture, pulse the blender a few times to leave some of the peas partially intact. Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño pepper according to your taste. To enhance the flavors, let the dip sit in the refrigerator for an hour before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dip with a platter of raw vegetables such as carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber slices. It also pairs wonderfully with whole-grain crackers or pita chips for a heartier snack.

Cooking Techniques

Blending is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which ensures a smooth and creamy texture. For those without a high-speed blender, a food processor can be used as an alternative, though the final texture may be slightly less smooth.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned black-eyed peas, you can use dried ones that have been soaked overnight and then cooked until tender. Tomato sauce can substitute for tomato paste for a thinner consistency. Fresh lime juice can be used in place of lemon juice for a different citrus note.

Make Ahead Tips

This dip can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dip in a colorful bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of chili powder or fresh herbs. For a festive touch, accompany the dip with vegetable sticks arranged in the colors of the rainbow.

Pairing Recommendations

This Black-eyed Pea Dip pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine or a light-bodied beer. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dip is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Black-eyed Pea Dip I contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option for snacking or as part of a meal.

Carbohydrates

A serving of this Black-eyed Pea Dip I contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the black-eyed peas, which are a good source of fiber and provide a slow release of energy.

Fats

This recipe is low in fat, with each serving containing less than 1 gram of fat. The minimal fat content primarily comes from the natural content in the black-eyed peas.

Proteins

Black-eyed peas are a great source of plant-based protein. Each serving of this dip provides about 7 grams of protein, making it a satisfying option for vegetarians and those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Black-eyed peas are rich in several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin K, folate, and iron. This dip also provides a good amount of Vitamin C from the lemon juice, enhancing its nutritional profile.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as gluten, nuts, dairy, and soy, making it suitable for individuals with food sensitivities or allergies.

Summary

Overall, the Black-eyed Pea Dip I is a nutritious choice, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, with a low fat and calorie content. It's a healthful addition to any diet.

Summary

The Black-eyed Pea Dip I is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious recipe that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich history, health benefits, and delightful flavor, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you're enjoying it as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, this dip is a wonderful way to incorporate the goodness of black-eyed peas into your diet.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly potluck dinner. Margaret was known for her delicious and unique recipes, and I always looked forward to trying something new that she had whipped up in her kitchen.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, Margaret brought out a bowl of what she called "Black-eyed Pea Dip." I had never heard of such a dish before, but one bite was all it took for me to fall in love. The creamy texture, the hint of spice, and the earthy flavor of the black-eyed peas all came together in perfect harmony. I knew I had to have the recipe.

"Margaret, this dip is absolutely incredible! Would you mind sharing the recipe with me?" I asked eagerly.

Margaret smiled and nodded, pleased that I enjoyed her creation. She reached into a drawer and pulled out a tattered old recipe card. "I actually got this recipe from my grandmother many years ago. It's been a family favorite ever since."

I thanked Margaret profusely and promised to make the dip for my own family soon. Little did I know that this simple recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I needed to make the Black-eyed Pea Dip. The recipe card was stained and faded, a testament to how many times it had been used over the years. As I followed the instructions, I could almost picture Margaret's grandmother in her own kitchen, passing down this recipe through the generations.

The dip turned out just as delicious as I remembered from Margaret's potluck dinner. I served it to my family as an appetizer before dinner, and it was met with rave reviews. My children couldn't get enough of it, and even my husband, who was usually a picky eater, asked for seconds.

From that day on, Black-eyed Pea Dip became a regular dish in our household. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even just as a snack for myself on lazy afternoons. Each time I made the dip, I thought of Margaret and her grandmother, grateful for the gift of this delicious recipe.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a dash of hot sauce here, a sprinkle of fresh herbs there. But the core ingredients remained the same - black-eyed peas, creamy mayonnaise, tangy vinegar, and a blend of spices that added just the right amount of kick.

As my own children grew up and left the nest, they would often call me for the recipe for Black-eyed Pea Dip. I would gladly share it with them, just as Margaret had shared it with me all those years ago. It became a tradition in our family, a dish that connected us across generations and miles.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, with the familiar smell of Black-eyed Pea Dip wafting through the air, I can't help but feel grateful for all the memories this recipe has brought me. From that fateful potluck dinner with Margaret to lazy Sunday afternoons with my family, this dip has been a constant source of joy and connection in my life.

And as I continue to make it for years to come, I know that the legacy of this recipe will live on in my family, just as it has in Margaret's. The simple act of sharing a recipe has created bonds that will last a lifetime, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Categories

| Black-eyed Pea Recipes | Dip Recipes | Jalapeno Pepper Recipes | Persian Recipes | Persian Snacks | Tomato Paste Recipes |

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