Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Introduction
Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas are a quick and easy way to enjoy a nutritious and comforting dish. These tender legumes cook perfectly in just minutes, making them a great base for a variety of meals or a satisfying side on their own.

Ingredients
- 1 cup black eyed peas (dried)
- 1 ½ cups water or chicken/vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sort through the black eyed peas to remove any clumps, dirt, or stones.
- Step 2: Add the sorted black eyed peas, water or broth, and salt (if using) to a 4 or 6-quart Instant Pot or pressure cooker.
- Step 3: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 13 to 14 minutes, adjusting time based on your preferred tenderness.
- Step 4: Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes after cooking time ends.
- Step 5: Carefully move the pressure release valve to the venting position to release remaining steam, then open the lid once the float valve drops.
- Step 6: Serve immediately, seasoned with additional salt and black pepper if desired, or incorporate into your favorite recipes.
Tips & Variations
- Use broth instead of water for richer flavor.
- Add a bay leaf or garlic cloves to the pot for extra aroma while cooking.
- If you prefer softer peas, increase cooking time by a couple of minutes.
- For a smoky twist, stir in a bit of smoked paprika or chopped cooked bacon after cooking.
Storage
Store cooked black eyed peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. You can also freeze cooked peas for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Do I need to soak black eyed peas before cooking them in the Instant Pot?
No, soaking is not necessary when using the Instant Pot as it cooks dried peas quickly and thoroughly without prior soaking.
Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dried?
Canned black eyed peas are already cooked and will not require pressure cooking. You can add them at the end of your recipe to warm through or use them directly in salads and other dishes.
Print
Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas Recipe
- Total Time: 28-29 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups cooked black eyed peas 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and quick recipe for perfectly cooked black eyed peas using an Instant Pot. This method ensures tender, flavorful peas ready to be enjoyed as a side dish or added to your favorite meals with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup black eyed peas (dried)
- 1 ½ cups water or chicken/vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
- Sort peas: Sort through the dried black eyed peas to remove any clumps, dirt, or stones to ensure clean and safe cooking.
- Add ingredients: Place the cleaned black eyed peas into a 4 or 6-quart Instant Pot. Add water or broth along with optional salt for seasoning.
- Cook in Instant Pot: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the pressure to high. Cook the peas for 13-14 minutes depending on how tender you like them.
- Release pressure: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes after cooking. Then, carefully move the pressure release valve to the venting position to release any remaining steam. Open the lid once the float valve drops.
- Serve: Serve the black eyed peas immediately. Season further with additional salt and black pepper if desired, or incorporate them into your favorite recipes. Enjoy!
Notes
- Natural pressure release helps maintain pea texture and prevents splattering.
- You can substitute water with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on how soft or firm you prefer your peas.
- Instant Pot size should be 4 or 6 quarts for best results.
- Rinsing peas before cooking can reduce foam during pressure cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13-14 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: Instant Pot black eyed peas, pressure cooker black eyed peas, easy black eyed peas recipe, southern peas recipe, gluten free side dish

