Save Black-Eyed Pea Nachos are a vibrant, Southern-inspired twist on the classic game-day favorite. This dish combines crunchy tortilla chips with hearty black-eyed peas and a blanket of melted cheddar cheese, creating a satisfying appetizer that is perfect for gatherings or a casual snack at home.
Save By swapping traditional beans for black-eyed peas, you get a distinct texture and a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the heat of fresh jalapeños and the tang of sour cream. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that is as colorful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- Base: 200 g (about 7 oz) tortilla chips
- Toppings: 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed; 200 g (7 oz) shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack); 100 g (3.5 oz) sour cream; 1–2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced; 1 medium tomato, diced; 2 spring onions, thinly sliced; Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish; 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Optional: 1 avocado, diced; Hot sauce, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2
- Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet or ovenproof platter.
- Step 3
- Scatter the drained black-eyed peas evenly over the chips.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.
- Step 5
- Bake in the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 6
- Remove from the oven and immediately top with dollops of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced tomato, and spring onions.
- Step 7
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges. Add avocado and hot sauce if desired.
- Step 8
- Serve immediately, and enjoy while hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, toss the black-eyed peas with a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin before adding them to the chips to enhance their savory profile.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream for a completely vegan version. You can also try adding diced red onion or pickled jalapeños for more zing.
Serviervorschläge
These nachos pair excellently with a crisp lager or a fresh margarita to balance the spices and richness of the cheese.
Save This festive appetizer is best enjoyed straight out of the oven, while the cheese is still bubbly and the chips are at their crunchiest. Happy snacking!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these nachos ahead of time?
Prepare all toppings in advance and store separately. Assemble and bake just before serving to maintain crispy chip texture and melted cheese consistency.
- → What other beans work well in this dish?
Pinto beans, black beans, or kidney beans make excellent substitutes. Each brings slightly different flavor profiles while maintaining the hearty texture.
- → How do I prevent soggy nachos?
Avoid watery toppings like salsa until after baking. Layer cheese directly on chips and beans to create a protective barrier that keeps everything crisp.
- → Can I cook these on the grill?
Yes, use a cast iron skillet or grill-safe pan. Cook over medium heat with the lid closed for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts completely.
- → What proteins pair well with these nachos?
Shredded chicken, ground beef, or pulled pork complement the black-eyed peas beautifully. Add pre-cooked meats before baking for heated-through results.