A simple one-pot meal the whole family will love! I make this on New Year’s Day every year as eating black eyed peas is thought to bring good luck, prosperity, and success to the new year. And not to mention the health benefits…they’re an excellent source of fiber and vitamins and minerals (notably folate and potassium).

Ingredients:

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 garlic gloves, minced 

• 2 tbsps olive oil

• 4-5 celery stalks, chopped
• 1-2 colored bell peppers, diced

• 1 cup frozen spinach (or 3 cups fresh)

• 1-2 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• pinch of cayenne (optional; omit if you do not want it spicy)

• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional)
• salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cans diced tomatoes 

• 1-2 tbsp honey 

• 1-2 tbsp dijon mustard
• 4-5 cups cooked black-eyed peas (you can use dried beans*, canned, or frozen)

*If using dried black eyed peas, soak them in water overnight. Then rinse and discard the soaking water. In a large soup pot, cover the beans with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to low heat and cook until the beans are tender (approx 20-30 mins)

Optional to help reduce gas and bloating: Add a 2-3 inch piece of kombu to the boiling water. This helps break down the raffinose in the beans, thus reducing gas. Discard the kombu once the beans are fully cooked (like you would a bay leaf).

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan or skillet, saute the onions and garlic in the oil on medium heat.
2. Chop the celery and bell peppers, and add them to the pan. Continue to saute for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the thyme, basil, oregano, spinach, cayenne (if using), nutritional yeast (if using), and salt and pepper. Cover and cook for ~5 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, honey, and mustard, and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the veggie mixture to a large soup pot with the cooked beans over medium heat. Stir occasionally until thoroughly heated. Season with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Top with cilantro or basil.

Recipe adapted from the Moosewood Restaurant Cooks at Home

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.