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Split Black-Eyed Peas
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Split Black-Eyed Peas

Vigna unguiculata

Clinical Encyclopedia

Split black-eyed peas are a nutritious legume known for their high protein and fiber content, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet. They are low in fat and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
Cowpeas (USA)Black-eyed beans (UK)
Scientific NameVigna unguiculata
Region of OriginWest Africa

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories116 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber6g
Total29.3g
Protein
8.2g(28%)
Fats
0.6g(2%)
Carbohydrates
20.5g(70%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin K2.9 µg (2%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.2 mg (17%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.2 mg (4%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate140 µg (35%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 1 µgVitamin C: 1.2 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.1 mgVitamin B12: 0 µgCholine: 0.5 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium27 mg (2%)
Iron1.5 mg (8%)
Magnesium30 mg (8%)
Phosphorus57 mg (8%)
Potassium358 mg (8%)
Zinc0.5 mg (5%)
Copper0.2 mg (10%)
Manganese0.3 mg (15%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.6 µg

Health Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, split black-eyed peas promote digestive health and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
High in protein, they are an excellent plant-based protein source, beneficial for muscle repair and growth.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rinse and soak the peas before cooking to enhance digestibility. They can be boiled, added to soups, or used in salads.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose split black-eyed peas that are uniform in color and free from debris or damage.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Digestive
Main Applications
Support digestive health
Aid in muscle recovery
Bioactive Compounds
Pectin

Helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports gut health.

Flavonoids

Provide antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage.

How to Consume
Cooked, Soups, Salads, Stews
Did you know?

"Black-eyed peas are traditionally eaten on New Year's Day in the Southern United States for good luck."

Myths vs Realities

MythBlack-eyed peas are only for Southern cooking.
RealityThey are versatile and can be used in various cuisines worldwide.
MythYou can't eat black-eyed peas if you're on a low-carb diet.
RealityThey are low in glycemic index and can fit into a balanced low-carb diet.
MythAll legumes cause gas.
RealityWhile some people may experience gas, soaking and cooking legumes properly can reduce this effect.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Salad

A refreshing and zesty salad featuring split black-eyed peas, fresh vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked split black-eyed peas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve chilled.

Black-Eyed Pea and Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious bowl packed with protein-rich split black-eyed peas, quinoa, and an array of colorful veggies, topped with a creamy avocado dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked split black-eyed peas
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1 carrot, shredded
  • 1/2 avocado
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the cooked split black-eyed peas, quinoa, spinach, and shredded carrot.
  2. 2. In a blender, blend the avocado, lemon juice, tahini, and salt until smooth.
  3. 3. Drizzle the avocado dressing over the bowl and toss to combine before serving.

Black-Eyed Pea Soup with Spinach

A hearty and comforting soup made with split black-eyed peas, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add the split black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, then stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Black-Eyed Pea Veggie Burgers

Delicious and healthy veggie burgers made with split black-eyed peas, oats, and spices, served on whole-grain buns with fresh toppings.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whole-grain burger buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, and avocado for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the cooked black-eyed peas and mix in oats, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into patties and pan-fry in a non-stick skillet until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. Serve the patties on whole-grain buns with lettuce, tomato, and avocado.

Mediterranean Black-Eyed Pea Dip

A flavorful dip made with split black-eyed peas, tahini, and Mediterranean spices, perfect for serving with pita chips or fresh veggies.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine the cooked black-eyed peas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and serve with pita chips or veggies.

Black-Eyed Pea Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring split black-eyed peas, colorful vegetables, and a savory soy sauce glaze, ideal for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat and add the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrot.
  2. 2. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp, then add the cooked black-eyed peas, soy sauce, and ginger.
  3. 3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, and serve warm.

Black-Eyed Pea Tacos

Flavorful tacos filled with spiced split black-eyed peas, topped with fresh salsa and avocado, perfect for a healthy twist on taco night.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Corn tortillas
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, combine the cooked black-eyed peas, chili powder, and cumin, and heat through for about 5 minutes.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with the black-eyed pea mixture, top with salsa and diced avocado, and garnish with cilantro.

Black-Eyed Pea and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash featuring split black-eyed peas and sweet potatoes, seasoned with spices and served with a poached egg on top.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 1 medium sweet potato, diced
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 eggs (for poaching)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent, then add the diced sweet potato and cook until tender.
  2. 2. Stir in the cooked black-eyed peas, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Poach the eggs in boiling water, then serve on top of the hash.

Black-Eyed Pea Curry

A rich and flavorful curry made with split black-eyed peas, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, served with brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt to taste
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft, then add the curry powder and turmeric, cooking for another minute.
  2. 2. Stir in the cooked black-eyed peas and coconut milk, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the curry over cooked brown rice.

Black-Eyed Pea and Kale Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring split black-eyed peas and nutrient-rich kale, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup split black-eyed peas, cooked
  • 1 cup kale, chopped
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, then stir in the cooked black-eyed peas, kale, and feta cheese.
  3. 3. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set and golden on top.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are split black-eyed peas gluten-free?

Yes, split black-eyed peas are naturally gluten-free.

How long do I need to cook split black-eyed peas?

They typically require about 30-40 minutes of cooking after soaking.

Can I eat split black-eyed peas raw?

No, they should be cooked before consumption to ensure safety.

What are the health benefits of black-eyed peas?

They are high in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, promoting heart health and digestion.

How should I store split black-eyed peas?

Store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Can I freeze cooked black-eyed peas?

Yes, cooked black-eyed peas can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Are black-eyed peas good for weight loss?

Yes, their high fiber content can help you feel full longer, aiding in weight management.

What dishes can I make with split black-eyed peas?

They can be used in soups, salads, and as a side dish or main course.