Black-Eyed Pea Curry

Featured in: One-Pot Comforts

This hearty black-eyed pea curry combines tender legumes with rich coconut milk and a blend of aromatic Indian spices. The dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala create layers of warming flavor, while fresh ginger adds a bright zing. The result is a thick, creamy curry that pairs beautifully with basmati rice or naan bread.

Updated on Thu, 05 Feb 2026 05:49:32 GMT
A warm bowl of Black-Eyed Pea Curry, featuring tender peas in a creamy, golden coconut milk sauce garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. A hearty, vegan dinner idea. Save
A warm bowl of Black-Eyed Pea Curry, featuring tender peas in a creamy, golden coconut milk sauce garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. A hearty, vegan dinner idea. | blipbite.com

This Black-Eyed Pea Curry is a hearty, aromatic dish that brings together tender legumes and a creamy coconut milk base. Infused with warming spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger, it offers a comforting, protein-rich meal that is perfect for anyone seeking a flavorful vegan dinner.

A warm bowl of Black-Eyed Pea Curry, featuring tender peas in a creamy, golden coconut milk sauce garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. A hearty, vegan dinner idea. Save
A warm bowl of Black-Eyed Pea Curry, featuring tender peas in a creamy, golden coconut milk sauce garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. A hearty, vegan dinner idea. | blipbite.com

Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep friendly option, this Indian-inspired curry delivers depth of flavor and satisfying textures in every spoonful.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
  • 1 can (14 oz/400 ml) coconut milk
  • ½ cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
  • 1–2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh green peas
  • 1½ teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of ½ lime
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Instructions

Step 1
Heat coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds (if using) and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
Step 2
Add onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
Step 3
Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4
Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Step 5
Pour in diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to break down.
Step 6
Add cooked black-eyed peas and green peas. Mix well.
Step 7
Stir in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 8
Season with salt and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the curry thickens and flavors meld.
Step 9
Stir in garam masala and lime juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 10
Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra richness, add a small cinnamon stick or a few curry leaves during the initial heating of the oil. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or fresh chilies according to your preference.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you don't have black-eyed peas on hand, this recipe works beautifully with chickpeas or kidney beans. The creamy coconut base is versatile enough to accommodate different legumes.

Serviervorschläge

This curry pairs perfectly with fluffy basmati rice or warm flatbreads like naan. The lime juice added at the end provides a bright contrast to the earthy spices.

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Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful Black-Eyed Pea Curry as a satisfying main dish that brings the taste of aromatic spices right to your table.

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Kitchen Guide

Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?

Yes, soak 1 cup dried black-eyed peas overnight, then cook for 45-60 minutes until tender before adding to the curry. Alternatively, use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time significantly.

How can I make this curry spicier?

Increase the chili powder to 1 teaspoon or add additional chopped green chilies. You can also include a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with hot pickle on the side.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

For a lighter version, use half coconut milk and half vegetable broth. You can also substitute with cashew cream or almond milk, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

How long does this curry keep in the refrigerator?

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices meld. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

Can I freeze this black-eyed pea curry?

Absolutely. Cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. The texture remains excellent after freezing.

What other beans work well in this curry?

Chickpeas, kidney beans, or black beans make excellent substitutes. Cooking times remain similar, though larger beans may need a few extra minutes to absorb all the aromatic flavors.

Black-Eyed Pea Curry

Creamy coconut curry with tender black-eyed peas, aromatic spices, and warming ginger.

Prep duration
15 min
Heat time
35 min
Complete duration
50 min
Created by Megan Lewis


Complexity Easy

Heritage Indian-inspired

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Guidelines Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten

Components

Legumes

01 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas

Aromatics

01 1 tablespoon coconut oil
02 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

Spices

01 1 teaspoon ground cumin
02 1 teaspoon ground coriander
03 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
04 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
05 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
06 1 teaspoon garam masala
07 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

Liquids

01 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
02 1/2 cup vegetable broth
03 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes

Vegetables

01 1 to 2 green chilies, chopped
02 1 cup fresh green peas

Seasoning and Garnish

01 1.5 teaspoons salt
02 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
03 Juice of 1/2 lime

Method

Phase 01

Toast Mustard Seeds: Heat coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.

Phase 02

Cook Onions: Add onions and sauté until soft and golden, approximately 5 minutes.

Phase 03

Develop Aromatics: Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.

Phase 04

Bloom Spices: Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Phase 05

Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to break down and release their juices.

Phase 06

Add Legumes and Peas: Add cooked black-eyed peas and green peas. Mix thoroughly to combine.

Phase 07

Simmer Curry: Stir in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the curry thickens and flavors meld.

Phase 08

Finish and Season: Stir in garam masala and lime juice. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

Phase 09

Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Tools needed

  • Large saucepan or pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Details

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains coconut, a tree nut allergen for some individuals.
  • Verify canned goods and spice labels for potential allergen cross-contamination.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Energy: 330
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 12 g