According to the USDA, beans can serve as nutritious, low-fat, low-cost meat substitutes. USDA's Dietary Guidelines for Americans include dry beans in both the meat and vegetable groups.
Cooking Tip #1
Optional Blackeye Pea Pre-Cook: While not required, some cooks suggest quickly boiling blackeye peas before cooking. Cover beans with water and boil 3 to 4 minutes. Discard the water and cook beans in beef, chicken, or vegetable broth.
