Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas

Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas Recipe - Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Persia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of fresh spinach, black-eyed peas, and aromatic spices. It is a popular dish in Persian cuisine and is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe has its roots in Persian cuisine, where spinach and black-eyed peas are commonly used in various dishes. The combination of these two ingredients creates a flavorful and hearty dish that is loved by many.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 leeks (white parts only), halved lengthwise, rinsed well and chopped (1 cup)
12 to 16 oz (454 g) fresh baby spinach, rinsed well
0.5 cup chopped fresh parsley
4 scallions (white and light green parts), sliced
2 (16 oz (454 g)) cans black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

In an extra-large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook, stirring often, until they are wilted and tender, which should take about 5 to 8 minutes.
Next, add the spinach, parsley, scallions, and 0.25 cup of water. Cover the skillet and cook until the spinach has wilted, which should take about 8 minutes.
After that, stir in the black-eyed peas, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook uncovered, just until heated through, which should take about 5 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Serve the dish hot.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
Stir in cooked quinoa or couscous for added texture.
Top with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rinse the spinach well to remove any dirt or debris.

- Cooking the leeks until they are wilted and tender will help to bring out their sweet flavor.

- Adding a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the dish.

- Season with salt and pepper to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a main course with a side of rice or bread. It can also be enjoyed as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Wilt the spinach by covering the skillet to steam it, which helps to retain its vibrant green color.

- Season the dish with spices at the end of cooking to preserve their flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned chickpeas or kidney beans instead of black-eyed peas.

- Substitute shallots or onions for leeks.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cooler.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas dish contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This dish is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

This Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas dish is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and flavorful dish.

Summary

This Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas dish is a flavorful and nutritious option for a satisfying meal. With its combination of fresh spinach, black-eyed peas, and aromatic spices, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a sunny afternoon in the bustling market of Tehran, where the air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of spices and fresh produce. As I browsed through the colorful stalls, my eyes landed on a small booth where a kind elderly woman was selling a variety of Persian dishes.

I approached her with curiosity, and she greeted me with a warm smile. She had a twinkle in her eye that spoke of years of experience and wisdom. I asked her about the dish she was preparing, and she told me it was a traditional recipe for Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas.

As she cooked, she shared with me the story of how she learned to make this dish. She explained that she had grown up in a small village in the mountains, where her mother and grandmother were known for their culinary skills. They would forage for wild spinach and black-eyed peas in the fields, and turn them into a hearty and flavorful stew that was loved by all.

She told me that she had learned the recipe from her mother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on for generations. She spoke with such passion and reverence for the dish, that I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I spent the rest of the afternoon watching and helping her as she cooked. I learned about the importance of using fresh ingredients, the balance of flavors, and the art of patience in cooking. She taught me how to sauté the onions and garlic until they were golden and fragrant, how to simmer the spinach and black-eyed peas until they were tender, and how to season it all with a blend of spices that had been passed down through the ages.

By the time the dish was ready, my mouth was watering and my stomach was growling. I eagerly took a bite, and was instantly transported to a world of rich flavors and comforting warmth. The dish was a perfect blend of earthy spinach, creamy black-eyed peas, and aromatic spices that danced on my tongue.

As I thanked the kind woman for sharing her recipe with me, she smiled and handed me a handwritten copy of it. She encouraged me to make it for my family and friends, and to pass it on to future generations. I left the market that day feeling inspired and grateful for the gift of this delicious recipe.

Over the years, I have made Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas countless times. I have adapted and perfected the recipe to suit my own tastes, but I always remember the wise woman in the market who first introduced me to it.

Whenever I make this dish, I am reminded of the rich culinary heritage of my ancestors, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my past, to honor the traditions that have been passed down to me, and to create new memories with those I hold dear.

As I write down this recipe for future generations, I hope that they too will experience the same joy and fulfillment that comes from cooking a dish with love and tradition. May they savor each bite, and feel the warmth and comfort that comes from a meal made with care and passion. And may they continue to pass on the legacy of Persian Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas for generations to come.