Creole Black-Eyed Peas and Rice 🍚🌱

This hearty dish is a warm, comforting staple that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Featuring the bold flavors of Creole seasoning, it combines protein and fiber-rich black-eyed peas with savory ground beef and aromatic vegetables. Plus, it’s all cooked together with fluffy rice, making clean-up a breeze. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and keep your family satisfied!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 small onions, chopped
• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 (15.5 ounce) cans black-eyed peas, drained

Instructions

1. In a deep skillet or large saucepan over medium-high heat, crumble the ground beef.

2. Add the onions and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook and stir until the beef is evenly browned. Drain any excess grease.

   🔥 Cooking the beef until browned helps develop deeper flavors. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you might need to do this in batches if using a smaller skillet!

3. Stir in the rice and water. Season with the Creole seasoning, black pepper, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil.

4. Once boiling, cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. About halfway through cooking, gently fold in the black-eyed peas.

   ⏰ Make sure not to lift the lid too often while the rice is cooking, as this releases steam and can affect cooking time!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Add an extra cup of mixed vegetables for added nutrition and color! 🌽🥦
• Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
• Herbaceous: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be sprinkled on top just before serving for a pop of freshness and flavor.
• Make it a casserole: After cooking, transfer everything to a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden—about 15-20 minutes.

This dish is great for meal prep too! Make a big batch at the start of the week, and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Savor the rich flavors and enchanting aromas of Creole cuisine! 🌍✨