Introduction to Black Eyed Pea Soup
A comforting meal for any occasion
If you're searching for a wholesome and delicious dish that warms the soul, look no further than black eyed pea soup. This versatile soup is a staple in many kitchens, especially during New Year's celebrations where black-eyed peas are believed to bring good luck. Packed with flavor and nutrition, each spoonful delivers a comforting experience that’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers with friends.
Black-eyed peas are not just tasty; they’re a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making this soup a healthy choice for anyone, including those following a gluten-free diet. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights. As you simmer the peas with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, your kitchen will be filled with inviting aromas, making it hard to resist diving right in.
Pair your black eyed pea soup with some moist cornbread for a classic Southern twist. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for something comforting after a long day, this soup promises to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a little luck to your table!
Ingredients for Black Eyed Pea Soup
Essential ingredients for a hearty soup
To whip up a delicious black eyed pea soup that warms the soul, you'll need a few key ingredients:
- Black-eyed peas: You can use two 15-ounce cans or half a pound of dried beans that you'll soak overnight.
- Avocado oil: This adds a nice richness.
- Vegetables: Carrots, a small yellow onion, and celery bring great flavor and texture.
- Garlic and herbs: Think minced garlic, dried thyme, and ground sage to add aromatic depth.
- Tomato paste: This brings a rich, savory note to your broth.
- Chicken broth: Four cups make for a flavorful base.
All of these elements work together to create a comforting and hearty soup that your family will love.
Optional ingredients for extra flavor
For those looking to kick up the flavor even more, consider these optional additions:
- Kale, turnip greens, or collard greens: Finely chopped for some added nutrition and color.
- Turkey bacon or chicken ham: For a protein boost and a slightly smoky flavor.
- Bay leaf: One leaves a lovely aromatic hint during cooking.
- Seasonings: Don't shy away from a little extra salt and pepper to taste.
With these ingredients, your black eyed pea soup can be customized to suit your taste buds! For more information on ingredient sources, check out Healthline for the nutritional benefits of black-eyed peas.
Preparing Black Eyed Pea Soup
Making a comforting bowl of black eyed pea soup is a delightful experience! Here's a helpful guide to walk you through the preparation step by step. Whether you're serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or celebrating a New Year's tradition, each step is straightforward and rewarding.
Gather Your Equipment and Ingredients
Before you get your hands dirty, let's round up everything you'll need. Grab your favorite Dutch oven—it's perfect for this recipe. You'll also need to gather the following ingredients:
- 2 15-ounce cans of black-eyed peas (or ½ pound dried beans)
- 1 tablespoon of avocado oil
- 1 cup chopped carrots (about 2 long carrots)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 medium celery ribs (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- ¼ teaspoon ground sage
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups finely chopped kale (or turnip greens/collard greens)
With everything set, let’s dive into the cooking process!
Sauté the Base Vegetables
Start by heating avocado oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it's nice and warm, toss in the chopped carrots, diced onion, and chopped celery. Allow them to sauté for about 5 minutes until they're tender and fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for your black eyed pea soup! Next, bring in the minced garlic, thyme, and sage. Stir these in and let them mingle for another minute.
Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Now for the flavorful part! Scoop in the tomato paste and stir it well with the vegetables. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen. This technique helps to intensify the richness of your soup, setting a solid foundation for the broth to come.
Incorporate the Broth and Beans
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring gently. This will help dissolve the tomato paste into the broth completely. Don’t forget to add in the bay leaf, salt, and pepper at this point. Once everything is well-integrated, bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer with Your Greens
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to low and stir in the finely chopped kale. Add the drained black-eyed peas next, turning the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. This is when the flavors meld beautifully, creating that comforting bowl of black eyed pea soup we all love.
Now that you have this warm, nourishing soup ready, serve it in bowls with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up every drop. Enjoy this delightful dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul!
Variations on Black Eyed Pea Soup
Spicy Black Eyed Pea Soup
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a kick to your black eyed pea soup by incorporating jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Start by sautéing chopped jalapeños with your vegetables for that extra heat. You could also experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor profile. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top can balance the spiciness beautifully!
Vegetarian-Friendly Black Eyed Pea Soup
For a vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken broth for a hearty vegetable broth. You can also enrich the black eyed pea soup with extra vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn for sweetness. If you’re looking for more texture, toss in some quinoa or wild rice. Don't forget to season it well—the herbs and spices are your best friends here!
Cooking tips and notes for Black Eyed Pea Soup
How to achieve the best flavors
To enhance your black-eyed pea soup, consider sautéing your vegetables until they’re slightly caramelized—this adds depth and richness. Don't skip the tomato paste; it brings a sweet tang to the broth. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also brighten the dish right before serving.
Storing and reheating advice
Store your black-eyed pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, either use the microwave in 1-minute increments or heat on the stove until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can help restore its creamy texture after freezing. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Serving suggestions for Black Eyed Pea Soup
Perfect pairings for your soup
For a comforting meal, pair your black eyed pea soup with crusty bread or homemade cornbread. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider adding Turkey Bacon for extra flavor. A side of mixed greens salad can also complement the soup beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch and balancing the warmth.
Creative serving ideas
Serve the soup in artisan bowls topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch. For a unique twist, try adding spicy hot sauce or lemon zest to brighten the flavors. You can also transform leftovers into a filling wrap—simply spoon the soup into a tortilla and add some sliced avocado for a delightful meal on-the-go!
Time Breakdown for Black Eyed Pea Soup
Preparation Time
Getting started is a breeze—prep your ingredients in just 10 minutes. This includes chopping veggies like carrots, onions, and celery, as well as measuring out spices.
Cooking Time
After you're all set, it’s time to cook! The actual cooking takes about 25 minutes, allowing flavors to develop beautifully in your black eyed pea soup.
Total Time
In a mere 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm and hearty dish ready to serve—perfect for a cozy dinner or New Year’s celebration!
So what are you waiting for? Dive into this comforting soup that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. For more tips on storing and reheating this delightful dish, check out our guide on meal prep. Enjoy!
Nutritional Facts for Black Eyed Pea Soup
Calories
A hearty serving of black-eyed pea soup comes in at just 222 calories. This makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without excessive calories, perfect for a light dinner or cozy lunch.
Protein
Each bowl offers 12 grams of protein! Packed with the goodness of black-eyed peas, this soup supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer, making it ideal for a busy lifestyle.
Fiber
With 10 grams of fiber per serving, this soup promotes healthy digestion. Fiber-rich meals like this one are not only satisfying but can also help in maintaining balanced energy levels throughout the day.
For more insights on the benefits of fiber, check out Healthline’s article on dietary fiber.
FAQs about Black Eyed Pea Soup
Can I use dried peas instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using dried black-eyed peas, soak them overnight or opt for a quick soak method. Just remember to increase the cooking time by about 20 minutes, or until the peas become tender. This method can enhance the flavor and texture of your black-eyed pea soup.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover black-eyed pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you're looking to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheating is a breeze, whether in the microwave or on the stovetop—just stir often to ensure even heating.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you're looking for alternatives to chicken broth in your black-eyed pea soup, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Miso broth is another great choice if you're after a rich, umami flavor. Feel free to explore and find what works best for your taste buds! For more tips on broth alternatives, check out resources from the American Heart Association.
Conclusion on Black Eyed Pea Soup
In summary, this black eyed pea soup is a delightful blend of flavors that your family will adore. It’s not just healthy and quick to prepare; it embodies warmth and comfort, making it an ideal choice for any dinner table. Enjoy the nourishing goodness and carry on the tradition!
Black Eyed Pea Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
Canned Peas
- 2 cans black eyed peas drained or ½ pound dried beans
Vegetables
- 1 Tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 cup chopped carrots about 2 long carrots
- 1 small yellow onion diced, about ½ cup
- 2 medium celery ribs chopped
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups finely chopped kale or turnip greens or collard greens
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- ¼ teaspoon ground sage
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
Soup Preparation
- In a large Dutch oven, add the oil and heat over medium heat.
- Add the carrots, onion, and celery and sauté for 5 minutes, then add the garlic, thyme, and sage, and stir well.
- Add the tomato paste, stir, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently until all of the tomato paste dissolves into the broth.
- Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper and bring it to a boil.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the temperature to low, add the kale and black-eye peas, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
- Serve in bowls with crusty bread or cornbread and enjoy!
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