Auntie Phyllis Bajan Black Eye Peas & Rice with Smoked Chicken

black eye peas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils are lower in calories and can be more affordable.

smoked chicken

🥗Healthier: grilled chicken

💰Cheaper: rotisserie chicken

Grilled chicken is leaner, while rotisserie chicken is often cheaper and readily available.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: milk + coconut extract

Light coconut milk reduces calories while maintaining flavor.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is often less expensive and has a neutral flavor.

Soak black eye peas in water overnight, then drain.

Cook soaked black eye peas in vegetable broth until tender, about 30-40 minutes.

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in thyme, bay leaf, and scotch bonnet pepper; cook for 2 minutes.

Add cooked black eye peas and rice to the pot; stir to combine.

Pour in coconut milk and additional vegetable broth; season with salt and black pepper.

Bring mixture to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low; cook for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.

In a separate pan, heat smoked chicken until warmed through.

Fluff rice and peas mixture with a fork; remove bay leaf and scotch bonnet pepper.

Serve rice and peas topped with smoked chicken, garnished with green onions and lime juice.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: