Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion , chopped
2 cloves garlic , minced
3 cups finely shredded napa cabbage
1 can sliced water chestnuts , drained
1 pound ham hocks
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
salt to taste
1 quart chicken stock
1 package frozen black-eyed peas
1 1/2 cups basmati rice , well rinsed
3 cups water
Lucky New Year's Black-Eyed Pea Stew is a traditional Southern dish served on New Year's Day for good luck and prosperity. Legend has it that eating black-eyed peas and ham hocks together in a stew or soup will bring good fortune in the coming year. It is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, often served with cornbread or biscuits. This stew is also a great way to use up leftover ham and vegetables, making it a budget-friendly meal option.

Instructions

1.Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2.Add onions and sauté for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
3.Add garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.
4.Add shredded napa cabbage and sliced water chestnuts, followed by ham hocks, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
5.Pour in chicken stock and add frozen black-eyed peas.
6.Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes.
7.Rinse basmati rice in a fine-mesh sieve until water runs clear. Add to the pot and stir.
8.Add 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low and let cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
9.Remove bay leaves and ham hocks and discard.
10.Serve hot and enjoy!

PROS

This stew is hearty and comforting, perfect for cold weather.
It is also packed with flavor and nutrients from the black-eyed peas and vegetables, making it a great one-pot meal for the whole family.

CONS

Ham hocks can be high in fat and sodium, so this stew should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
It is also relatively time-consuming to prepare, with a total cook time of about an hour.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Black-eyed peas are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are also low in fat and calories and can help promote heart health and digestive regularity. Napa cabbage and water chestnuts are both nutrient-dense vegetables that can help support immunity and lower inflammation.

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