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Persian-Style Carrots and Black-Eyed Peas

This Persian-style carrots and black-eyed peas dish is a vibrant vegetarian option that brings a touch of Middle Eastern warmth to your kitchen. The recipe combines the earthy texture of black-eyed peas with naturally sweet carrots and red peppers, all elevated by the luxurious aroma of saffron and a bespoke Persian spice blend. It is a wonderful example of how simple store-cupboard staples can be transformed into a sophisticated, colourful side dish or a light main meal.

Perfect for meal prepping or entertaining, this nutritious salad is best served at room temperature to allow the honey and lemon dressing to fully meld with the spices. It makes a balanced, fibre-rich lunch on its own or serves as a fragrant accompaniment to grilled halloumi or flatbreads. This dish is as visually striking as it is delicious, offering a healthy and comforting flavour profile that suits any season.

Ingredients for Persian-Style Carrots and Black-Eyed Peas

  • 150g dried black-eyed peas

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste

  • Pinch of saffron

  • 2 tablespoons warm tap water

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 600g thin carrot rounds

  • 1 red pepper, stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Persian Spice Mix

  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 2 teaspoons honey

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

How to make Persian-Style Carrots and Black-Eyed Peas

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the black-eyed peas and 950ml water and bring to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat and simmer until tender, about 25 minutes. Off the heat, add the salt and set aside while the peas absorb some salt for 10 minutes. Drain.

Meanwhile, put the saffron and water in a small bowl. Mix and set aside for at least 15 minutes and as long as overnight.

Place a large sauté pan over medium-low heat and add the olive oil, onion, carrots, and red pepper, stirring until the peppers start to soften and the onion is translucent, about 10 minutes. Add the saffron (and its blooming water), Persian Spice Mix, garlic, and black-eyed peas. Season the carrots and peas with salt and pepper to taste and stew until the carrots and peppers are tender and the black-eyed peas are glazed.

Remove from the heat and set aside to cool. Stir in the lemon juice, honey, and parsley. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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