Description
Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this Black Eyed Pea Jambalaya with Turkey Sausage is perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Inspired by Southern culinary traditions, this recipe combines smoky turkey sausage, tender black eyed peas, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful spices into one satisfying, one-pot meal. It’s a modern, lighter take on a classic dish that’s sure to delight the whole family.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound turkey sausage, sliced into rounds
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1 medium onion, diced
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
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1 can (15 ounces) black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
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1 cup long-grain rice
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2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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2 bay leaves
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
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Optional garnish: sliced green onions
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add turkey sausage and cook 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and celery. Sauté 5–6 minutes until soft.
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Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add diced tomatoes, black eyed peas, rice, and chicken broth. Mix well.
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Season with smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and salt. Add bay leaves. Stir to combine.
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Return turkey sausage to the skillet. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes until rice is cooked. Stir occasionally.
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Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes. Discard bay leaves.
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Garnish with parsley and green onions, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
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Long-grain rice prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
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Adjust cayenne pepper for your preferred spice level.
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Can be made ahead; store leftovers in the fridge for 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
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Customize with additional vegetables or alternative proteins like chicken sausage or smoked tofu.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes