A Delicious & Nutritious New Year Feast: Black-Eyed Peas Curry Recipe

As we welcome the New Year, it’s time to spotlight a hidden gem. In many Southern cultures of the US, black-eyed peasare considered a lucky food to eat on New Year's Eve. Flavorful and comforting, these  dried beans are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious and auspicious meal.

So in the list ofNew Year’s foods, black-eyed peas are a true star. They’re incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with all kinds of ingredients. These are easy to prepare and taste absolutely amazing in so many recipes. Beyond curry, you can toss them into bean salads, make crispy snacks, add them to hearty stews, stir-fries, and so much more. But today, we’re focusing on the perfect Black-eyed peas curry, a dish that brings together the rich, creamy goodness of this legume.

India and curries share a beautiful, timeless connection, and by creating this flavorful  Black eyed Peas Curry (also called Chawli curry) we embrace a medley of aromaticIndian spices.Let’s celebrate the New Year with a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in symbolism! 

And don’t forget to check out our  New Year Box of the Month, featuring the finest black-eyed peas and other family cooking essentials to make your pantry meals extra special. 

Lobiya Curry (Black-Eyed Pea Curry) Recipe:

Ingredients-

• 1.5 cupsPride of India’sblack-eyed peas,dry
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup tomatoes, finely chopped

Pride of India's Spices:

• ½ tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, slit (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoongaram masala spice powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1 teaspoon Pride of India's Himalayan White Salt (adjust to taste)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or 1 tsp Chat Masala(optional)

Directions-

1. Prepare the lobiya beans:

• Soak the dried beans overnight (or at least for 5 hours). Drain and rinse them thoroughly the next morning

2. Cook:

• In a large pot, cook the soaked beans with 1.5 cups of water until they are tender (around 10 -12 minutes in an Instant Pot).

3. Prepare Curry Base:

• Heat oil in a pan. Add bay leaves and mustard seeds. Sauté until the mustard seeds begin to pop.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
• Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, and slit green chilies. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

• Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and form a paste (about 5-8 minutes).
• Add the coriander powder, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cinnamon, and Himalayan salt. Cook briefly until the spices release their aroma.

5. Combine the Cooked Beans:

• Add the cooked beans to the pan along with 1.5 cups of water. Stir well.
• Let the curry simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary.

6. Finish the Curry:

• Stir in lemon juice or Indian chat masala (optional) for a tangy kick.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves.

This wholesome Lobiya Curry is a dish that embodies pure flavors and nutritious delight, perfect for any New Year dinner or whenever you’re craving something comforting! Enjoy this curry as it pairs wonderfully with Pride of India’s extra long brown basmati rice (grab the Box of the Month) or with bread or tortillas.

For 5 more exciting New Year recipes, Check Out The Blog.

If you're looking for more recipes using dried beans, don’t miss our vegan Kidney Bean Kebabs recipe, easy to make and incredibly satisfying!