Homemade Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests

Quick Question: What Is The Flavor Of Black Eyed Pea Soup?

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Black-eyed pea soup boasts a comforting and earthy flavor. These legumes absorb the savory essence of broth, herbs, and seasonings, resulting in a hearty, mildly nutty taste with hints of the accompanying vegetables and seasonings.

Do you want to make your own delicious homemade Black Eyed Pea Soup? Of course you do! Who would not be delighted to enjoy a wholesome, easy-to-make, and delicious black-eyed pea soup?

People who have not tried this delicious soup before! It is phenomenal.

But you are going to need some instructions to get yourself started. It is for this reason that we have written this article.

With our help, there is no reason why you should not be able to make and enjoy your own homemade black-eyed pea soup!

So, without further ado, let’s dive right in and start!

The basic steps that you need to follow are as follows:

  • Soak Your black-eyed peas. 
  • Cook the chopped bacon. 
  • Cook the chopped ham hocks. 
  • Sauté your onion, celery, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. 
  • Add the chicken broth. 
  • Add the black-eyed peas, Creole seasoning, salt, and pepper. 
  • Simmer for about thirty minutes. 
  • Add some fresh chopped spinach
  • Add more stock if the beans are dry. 
  • Take out the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning before serving. 

You will need more detail if you want this soup to turn out perfectly. So, read on to learn more about making this delicious and wholesome soup at home.

What Is Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe?

Black Eyed Pea Soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made from black-eyed peas, various vegetables, and a blend of spices. Starting with a base of onions and garlic sautéed to aromatic perfection, add diced tomatoes, carrots, and celery for freshness. 

The black-eyed peas, the dish’s star, contribute a distinct earthy flavor and creamy texture. Herbs and spices, like bay leaves, thyme, and smoked paprika, add layers of flavor. 

Simmering all ingredients together melds the flavors, creating a delicious soup. It’s ideal for any season and a wholesome choice that satisfies taste and nutrition.

History Of Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

The Black Eyed Pea Soup traces its roots back to the Southern United States. Black-eyed peas, native to Africa, arrived in America during the slave trade. The peas grew well in Southern climates, becoming a staple food. 

The tradition of cooking black-eyed peas into a hearty soup, often with ham or bacon, began as a practical, economical way to create nutritious, filling meals. Over time, the soup gained popularity nationwide, valued for its comforting taste, nutritional benefits, and symbol of good luck in the New Year.

Interesting Facts About Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

  • Black Eyed Pea Soup is often associated with good luck and prosperity, especially when eaten on New Year’s Day in the Southern United States.
  • The black-eyed pea is not a pea but a type of bean, part of the legume family.
  • The soup is a rich source of fiber and protein, making it a nutritious choice.
  • The dish is versatile and adaptable. You can add different vegetables, proteins, or spices based on personal preference or regional variations.
  • Slow-cooking the soup melds the flavors, enhancing its depth and complexity.
  • In some versions, a ham hock or bacon is added to the soup for a smoky flavor.
  • Despite its origins in the South, the popularity of Black Eyed Pea Soup has spread across the United States and beyond.
  • It’s a dish that embodies the concept of “waste not, want not,” as it traditionally used leftovers and inexpensive ingredients to create a hearty meal.
  • Black Eyed Pea Soup can be served with cornbread, another Southern staple for a satisfying meal.
  • The soup’s ingredients are often used in other dishes, like Hoppin’ John, a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and pork.

What Makes Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe Special?

  • Nutrient-Dense: The black-eyed peas are packed with fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, making the soup a healthy choice.
  • Versatility: The recipe can easily be modified to suit personal tastes, dietary needs, or what you have available in your kitchen.
  • Good Luck Charm: Eating Black Eyed Pea Soup in Southern tradition on New Year’s Day brings prosperity and good luck.
  • Heartwarming Comfort: The rich, hearty flavors and comforting warmth make this soup a crowd-pleaser.
  • Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavors, the soup requires simple ingredients and basic cooking skills.
  • Vegan-Friendly: With no meat or dairy, it’s an excellent choice for vegan and vegetarian diets when prepared traditionally.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: The soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to blend and intensify.
  • Budget-Friendly: The main ingredients, black-eyed peas and vegetables, are inexpensive and readily available.
  • Global Appeal: While it has Southern roots, the soup is enjoyed by people worldwide.

Ingredients List

IngredientsQuantity
Black Eyed PeasAbout 1 pound
Bacon4 to 5 slices
Ham HocksHalf a pound
Large Onion1 large
Celery2 stalks
Garlic Cloves1 tablespoon
Fresh Thyme2 teaspoons
Bay Leaves1 to 2
Chicken Broth6 to 7 cups
Creole Seasoning2 teaspoons
Spinach1 1/2 cups
SaltA pinch
PepperA little bit

What Ingredients Do You Need For this Recipe?

To do cooking of any description, you need to have the right ingredients on hand. For this reason, we have listed everything you require for this soup below. 

  • Black-Eyed Peas – This recipe requires about one pound of black-eyed peas. 
  • Bacon – This recipe calls for four to five slices of bacon. 
  • Ham Hocks – Half a pound of ham hocks or smoked turkey is needed for this dish. 
  • Large Onion – You will require one large onion to make this tasty soup. 
  • Celery – This recipe calls for two stalks of diced celery.
  • Garlic Cloves – One tablespoon of fresh garlic is required to make this soup. 
  • Fresh Thyme – This recipe calls for two teaspoons of fresh thyme. 
  • Bay Leaves – You will need one to two bay leaves to make this soup.
  • Chicken Broth – This recipe requires six to seven cups of chicken broth. 
  • Creole Seasoning – This recipe requires two teaspoons of Creole seasoning. 
  • Spinach – This recipe requires one and a half cups of spinach. 
  • Salt – Just a pinch of salt is needed for this recipe. 
  • Pepper – A little bit of pepper is needed to make this soup. 

Now that you have all these ingredients, you can finally start cooking your black-eyed pea soup! It is easy; follow the instructions, and you will be fine.

Ingredient Tips

  • Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients. A fresh onion, for example, can provide more flavor than its pre-packaged counterparts.
  • Spice Check: Check the expiration date on your spices. Old spices may lose potency and alter the desired taste of your soup.
  • Canned Goods: For canned ingredients like black-eyed peas and diced tomatoes, choose low-sodium or no-salt-added versions for better control over the soup’s salt content.
  • Bouillon Cubes: You can substitute beef bouillon cubes with beef broth. If you do so, remember to adjust the amount of water accordingly.
  • Sausage and Ground Beef: Choose high-quality meats for the best flavor. Also, drain excess fat after browning to reduce the soup’s fat content.
  • Molasses: Molasses add a touch of sweetness and richness. If you can’t find it, brown sugar or honey can substitute.
  • Customizing Heat: Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your heat preference. You can remove or reduce the quantity if you like a milder soup.
  • Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables in advance to save time during cooking.
  • Stock Up: Keep staple ingredients like canned black-eyed peas, tomatoes, and bouillon cubes in your pantry for a quick meal anytime.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Don’t skip this ingredient. It adds a depth of flavor that elevates the soup.

Can You Vary The Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Is something not quite right with this recipe? One or more ingredients don’t settle in your stomach? If this is the case, don’t worry! There are some variations that you can implement that suit you. 

  • For one, if you are vegan, you could use vegetable stock and not put in bacon, ham, or turkey. If you do not want any meat in this dish, add a bit of paprika to give it a delightful smokey taste. 
  • If you like your soup with a kick, you can always add spices to bring out this flavor. For example, add some cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or chili powder.
  • Alternatively, add some habanero, scotch bonnet, or serrano peppers if your soup is especially spicy. 
  • Adding a little garnish to your soup can bring out the flavor. A little Parmesan cheese or lime juice can add a strong flavor to this dish. 
  • If you want a more hearty soup, try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. While this soup is filling, switching out the potatoes can make a difference.

Recipe Directions

  • In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook a delicious blend of ground beef, savory pork sausage, and diced onion for 10-12 minutes, stirring until the meat loses its pink hue. 
  • Be sure to drain the excess fat for a healthier dish. 
  • Elevate the flavors by adding water, cumin, black pepper, beef bouillon cubes, molasses, zesty green chilies, and a pinch of salt, complemented by the richness of garlic salt and Worcestershire sauce. 
  • For a burst of Tex-Mex charm, incorporate tomatoes with green chiles, diced tomatoes, and hearty black-eyed peas. 
  • Thoroughly mix the ingredients to create a flavorful base. 
  • Let the soup reach a hearty boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, covering the pot for a tantalizing 45 minutes. 
  • Uncover the pot to reveal a delightful, aromatic concoction, ready to be served and savored with warm cornbread or tortilla chips. 

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

  • Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth or bouillon cubes instead of beef.
  • Spicy Version: Add more green chiles or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Creamy Version: Mix half the soup for a creamier texture. Or, stir in a little cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
  • Meat Lovers: Add smoked ham, bacon, or shredded chicken for a meatier soup.

Add-Ons

  • Grains: Add cooked rice, barley, or quinoa for a heartier meal.
  • Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or spinach for extra nutrients.
  • Beans: Mix in different beans, like kidney or pinto, for more variety.
  • Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for flavor.

Toppings

  • Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on top for a cheesy finish.
  • Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped parsley or cilantro for color and freshness.
  • Crunch: Add croutons or crispy bacon bits for a bit of crunch.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
  • Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Scaling The Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

Scaling a recipe up or down is about maintaining the same ratios of ingredients. Here’s how you can do it with the Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe:

Scaling Up

Let’s say you want to double the recipe to serve more people:

  • Every ingredient should be doubled. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 lb of ground beef, you’ll use 2 lbs. If it requires 4 cups of water, you’ll use 8 cups.
  • The cooking time may also need to increase, particularly the time it takes for the soup to boil. However, the simmering time might remain the same, as you need to ensure that all ingredients are cooked through.
  • Make sure your cooking vessel is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Scaling Down

If you want to make the soup for fewer people:

  • Halve each ingredient. For instance, if the recipe calls for 1 lb of ground beef, use 0.5 lb. If it requires 4 cups of water, use 2 cups.
  • The cooking time may decrease, so keep a close eye on the soup to avoid overcooking. The simmering time may also reduce, as there’s less volume to cook through.
  • Use a smaller pot suitable for the reduced volume.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

Garnishing the Black Eyed Pea Soup can enhance its visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor. Here are some options:

  • Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of parsley, cilantro, or even a sprinkle of chives can add color and a new taste.
  • Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream can add a creamy contrast to the soup’s texture.
  • Croutons: These can add a delightful crunch and a toasty flavor.
  • Bacon Bits: If you need to prepare soup for vegetarians or vegans, crispy bacon bits can add a smoky flavor and crunch.
  • Sliced Green Onions: These can provide a pop of color and a mild, sweet onion flavor.
  • Avocado Slices: Consider some ripe avocado slices for a creamy, fresh addition.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top can provide a tangy contrast to the savory soup.

Can I Make Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! The Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe can easily adapt to a slow cooker and an Instant Pot.

Slow Cooker

  • Brown the ground beef, pork sausage, and onions in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure there’s no pink left in the meat.
  • Drain the excess fat, then transfer the meat and onions to the slow cooker.
  • Add the rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker and combine.
  • Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  • Adjust seasonings if needed before serving.

Instant Pot

  • Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Cook the ground beef, pork sausage, and onions until no pink remains in the meat.
  • Drain the excess fat.
  • Add the remaining ingredients to the Instant Pot.
  • Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
  • Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quickly release the remaining pressure.
  • Stir and adjust seasonings if needed before serving.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can use store-bought or homemade broth for your Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe. Both have their advantages.

Store-Bought Broth

  • Convenience: Store-bought broth is ready to use and saves time. You don’t need to prepare it beforehand.
  • Availability: It’s available in various types (chicken, beef, vegetable), and you can choose based on your preference or the recipe’s requirement.
  • Consistency: The flavor is consistent, helping you achieve the same taste every time you make the soup.

Homemade Broth

  • Flavor: Homemade broth generally has a richer, more robust flavor. You can control the ingredients, adjusting to your taste.
  • Healthier: In some store-bought versions, it’s often healthier and free from preservatives, excess sodium, and artificial flavors.
  • Economical: If you regularly cook meals, making broth from leftover bones and vegetable scraps can be cost-effective.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe?

You can experiment with different types of meat, fish, pasta, and vegetables in your Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Meat: If you prefer poultry, chicken or turkey can be an excellent substitute for pork and beef. For a smoky flavor, try using ham or smoked sausage.
  • Fish: For a pescatarian version, consider adding firm white fish or shrimp towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
  • Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or small shells could be cooked directly in the soup for added texture. Remember, the pasta will absorb liquid, so you may need to adjust the amount of broth.
  • Vegetables: Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Root vegetables like carrots or parsnips could be sautéed with the onions. Leafy greens like spinach or kale could be stirred in towards the end of cooking until just wilted.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

Do you want to make cooking this soup easier? Well, then, you have to read these tips and tricks. They are sure to help you shave some time off this laborious process. 

For starters, when you soak your beans, you should do so in three tablespoons of water and salt for three to four hours. Doing this will make your beans soft and super flavorful. 

If you rush to get dinner on the table, you can always skip soaking the beans. However, this means your beans will take ten or more minutes to cook. 

If you still want to soak your beans, you can do a quick soak! Cover the black eyed peas with about two inches of water and bring them to a boil.

Once the water is boiling, turn off the stove and allow the beans to rest for about an hour. Do this before you start cooking!

Nutritional Values

Black Eyed Pea Soup is not just a comfort food; it’s also packed with nutrients. A serving of this soup is rich in protein from the black-eyed peas and meat, contributing to muscle growth and repair. The vegetables provide dietary fiber, essential for digestive health. 

This soup is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and vitamin C. Despite its nutritional value, it’s essential to consider its calorie content, particularly if you’re watching your weight. 

What Are The Total Calories In Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe?

The total calories in a Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe can vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. On average, a homemade Black Eyed Pea Soup serving contains 350-450 calories.

The meat contributes a significant portion of the calories, with pork sausage and ground beef being higher in calories due to their fat content. Black-eyed peas, tomatoes, and other vegetables contribute fewer calories but add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

The traditional Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe can have several dietary restrictions based on its ingredients:

  • Meat: The ground beef and pork sausage are unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans. You could replace the meat with additional veggies or plant-based proteins for a vegetarian or vegan version.
  • Gluten: While the soup doesn’t contain gluten, some store-bought broths, bouillon cubes, and sausages may have hidden gluten. Always check labels if you’re cooking for someone with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
  • Dairy: This soup is dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy.
  • Allergens: The recipe doesn’t contain common allergens like nuts, soy, or shellfish. But always double-check the ingredients of any store-bought items, such as broth or sausage, to ensure they’re allergen-free.
  • Low-Carb/Keto: This recipe isn’t suitable for low-carb or keto diets due to the black-eyed peas, which are a source of carbohydrates.
  • Paleo/Whole30: This soup isn’t compliant with Paleo or Whole30 guidelines because both diets exclude legumes, like black-eyed peas.

Health Benefits Of The Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

The Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe offers numerous health benefits due to its wholesome ingredients:

  • Protein-Rich: The black-eyed peas, pork, and beef in the soup provide protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
  • Fiber-Filled: Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help control blood sugar levels.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: The soup contains various vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and Vitamin C, which benefit overall health.
  • Low in Fat: When lean meats are used, this soup can be relatively low in fat, making it a heart-healthy choice.
  • Hydrating: Soup recipes contribute to daily fluid intake, promoting hydration.
  • Immune Boosting: The vegetables and spices, such as onions, tomatoes, and garlic, contain antioxidants and nutrients that support the immune system.

Nutrition Table

How Can I Make Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe Lower In Sodium?

You can easily adapt the Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe to lower sodium for a low-sodium diet. Here are some suggestions:

  • Use Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for a low-sodium or unsalted store-bought broth or make your own at home.
  • Skip the Bouillon Cubes: Bouillon cubes typically contain high amounts of sodium. You can exclude them or choose a low-sodium variant.
  • Rinse Canned Goods: If you’re using canned black-eyed peas or tomatoes, rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the soup to wash off any extra sodium.
  • Control Seasoning: Limit the addition of salt, garlic salt, and Worcestershire sauce, which all contribute to the overall sodium content. You can use a sodium-free substitute or rely on herbs and spices for flavor.
  • Choose Low-Sodium Meats: Pick low-sodium versions of meats, or use fresh meat instead.

How Can I Make Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe Lower In Sugar?

The Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe is generally low in sugar, but if you’re closely managing your sugar intake for a diabetic diet, here are some suggestions to reduce it even further:

  • Watch the Tomatoes: Some canned tomatoes, especially those with green chilies, may have added sugars. Look for no-sugar-added versions.
  • Skip the Molasses: Molasses is added for sweetness and depth, but you can leave it out to reduce sugar.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Canned goods can sometimes contain added sugars. Opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible.
  • Check the Sausage: Some sausages may contain added sugars. Look for brands without added sugar, or make your own if possible.
  • Beware of Hidden Sugars: Certain broths or bouillon cubes may have sugars, so check the labels.

How To Serve The Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe At Its Best?

If you require a quick and delicious meal, leftover soup can make your life much easier. To store this soup, all you need to do is put it in an airtight container and put it in the refrigerator.

It will last between four and five days. Alternatively, you can freeze your leftover soup. It will last two months or more if you store it this way. 

When you eventually want to eat your leftover black eyed pea soup, all you need to do is reheat it. You can do this in a saucepan on the stovetop or the microwave.

Either way, it is not difficult to do, and you can enjoy your soup in just a few minutes.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Recipe

The hearty Black Eyed Pea Soup pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions:

  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting side that pairs beautifully with this soup.
  • Cornbread: Cornbread is a traditional side of this soup, especially in Southern cuisine. Its sweetness balances the savory flavors of the soup.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich, hearty soup.
  • Garlic Bread: The robust flavor of garlic bread complements the soup nicely and is perfect for soaking up any leftover soup in the bowl.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies with complementing flavors, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes, can make an excellent side dish.
  • Rice or Quinoa: A side of rice or quinoa can add more substance to the meal, mainly if you’re serving the soup as a main course.
  • Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the flavors of the soup.

How Long Can We Store The Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe?

Storing the Black Eyed Pea Soup properly can help you enjoy it longer. Here’s how:

  • Fridge: Once the soup has cooled, you can keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days.
  • Freezer: If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the soup. It should keep well for about 2 to 3 months. For best quality, use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Can I Make Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe In Advance?

If you want to make your soup ahead of time, you can do so easily. Bear in mind that getting your beans ready will take the longest.

That being said, you can freeze black eyed peas that have already been cooked, saving you a lot of time. 

If you want to make a large batch of soup, this is a great way to save time and simplify the whole process.

Alternatively, you could cook your soup and freeze it in plastic bags or small containers. This way, you have a fast lunch on hand whenever you need it!

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Leftovers of the Black Eyed Pea Soup can be put to good use in several ways:

  • Freeze for Later: The soup freezes well. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe jars and freeze for 2-3 months. It’s perfect for a quick meal on a busy day.
  • Make a New Dish: You can use the leftover soup as a base for a new dish. Add pasta, rice, or different vegetables and transform it into a fresh meal.
  • Use as a Sauce: Thick the leftover soup with some flour or cornstarch and use it as a sauce over cooked pasta or rice.
  • Bake into a Casserole: Combine the soup with cooked rice or pasta, top with cheese, and bake for a comforting casserole.
  • Use in a Wrap or Burrito: If the soup is thick enough, it can be used as a filling for wraps or burritos. Add some lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese for a quick lunch.
  • Make a Dip: Blend the soup to a smooth consistency and serve it as a dip with some tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.

Specials Tools/Equipment Needed 

Preparing Black Eyed Pea Soup requires some basic kitchen tools and equipment:

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven: You’ll make the soup here. A Dutch oven is great for maintaining even heat.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: These are needed to chop the onion and other fresh ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: These accurately measure your ingredients, spices, and liquids.
  • Stirring Spoon: You’ll need this to mix the ingredients as they cook.
  • Can Opener: If you’re using canned black-eyed peas, tomatoes, or chilies, you’ll need a can opener.
  • Ladle: A ladle helps serve the soup.
  • Blender (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion or regular blender to puree some or all of the soup.

Final Thoughts

We hope you have enjoyed reading this article and learning how to make this delicious and delightful soup at home.

It is so easy to make this soup at home. With our instructions and list of ingredients, you should be well on your way to making a delightful soup just like this.

Black-eyed pea soup is rich, filling, flavorsome, and fragrant. One taste, and you will be hooked! 

If you have enjoyed reading this article and learning how to make this delightful soup at home, you must check out some of our other articles.

We have tons of amazing articles there. Some of which you are sure to find interesting and maybe even helpful. 

Thanks for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Okay To Use Tinned Black Eyed Peas In This Soup??

Most of you will know that black eyed peas need to be soaked before you do any cooking.

But, if you do not have time to do this, you can always use canned beans instead. All you need to do is drain the can and rinse them. 

What Other Types Of Beans Can You Use In This Soup?

If you don’t have any black eyed peas on hand, you can use other types of beans. For example, you can use pinto, kidney, black, or cannellini beans.

These are fantastic options to replace black eyed peas in your soup.

What Is The Best Way To Thin Out Your Soup?

Is your soup beginning to look more like a stew than soup? If so, then you might want to thin it out a little.

The best way to do this is to add just a dash of chicken broth or water. Start with just a bit and add more if your soup does not reach the right consistency.

What Are The Perfect Side Dishes For Black Eyed Pea Soup?

Are you at a loss for what you can serve with black eyed pea soup? If so, you might need a few ideas for sides.

Some of the best sides for Southern-style soups are as follows: skillet cornbread, hot water cornbread, sweet potato cornbread, vinegar coleslaw, or sweet potato pie.

Any of these sides will go fantastically well with this delightful soup. So, pick one that suits your tastes!

What Other Delicious Black Eyed Pea Recipes Can You Make?

Are you looking for some different ways to enjoy black eyed peas? Yes? Well, lucky you! There are a ton of delicious dishes that will suit your taste.

Some fantastic options are as follows: Koki Beans, Cowboy Caviar, Black Eyed Pea Salad, Red Red, and Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas.

Homemade Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests

Homemade Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests

0 from 0 votes
Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soups u0026amp; Broths
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

The Black Eyed Pea Soup recipe is hearty, flavorful, and nutritious. It’s perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day or as a healthy choice. Whether you love homey soups or explore new culinary horizons, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

  • Black Eyed Peas

  • Bacon

  • Ham Hocks

  • Large Onion

  • Celery

  • Garlic Cloves

  • Fresh Thyme

  • Bay Leaves

  • Chicken Broth

  • Creole Seasoning

  • Spinach

  • Salt

  • Pepper

Step-By-Step Directions

  • Soak Your Black-Eyed Peas
    The first thing you need to do is soak your black-eyed peas. To do this, you only need to add the beans to a big bowl and then cover them with cold water.
    Allow them to soak for two to three hours before cooking with these beans. 
  • Cook Your Chopped Bacon
    Grab a large frying pan and heat it with just a drizzle of oil. While the pan is warming up, chop your bacon into little bits and put them in the pan when it is hot.
    Cook your bacon pieces for five to six minutes until they are all delightfully brown and crispy.
  • Chop And Pan Fry Your Ham Hocks
    If your ham hocks are not already chopped into little pieces, chop them into pieces. Once chopped, add the ham to a hot frying pan and cook them for about five minutes.
  • Sauté Your Onions And Herbs
    Mix your onion, celery, and garlic into pieces and toss them in a hot pan with thyme and the bay leaves.
    Sauté these ingredients for three to five minutes until the onions are wilted and slightly caramelized. 
  • Add The Chicken Broth
    With all your beats cooked and your onions sautéed, add your chicken broth to the pan. You could use water, but broth adds a little more flavor. 
  • Drain The Black-Eyed Peas And Add Them To The Pot
    Your beans should be ready to go into the pot at this point. So, drain them and toss the beans into the pot along with the following seasonings: Creole seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    Stir this mixture until everything has combined. Keep stirring until the water starts to boil.
  • Reduce The Heat And Leave To Simmer
    Put the heat on low and allow your soup to simmer for about thirty minutes.
    Every so often, make sure to stir the soup. You will know your soup is done when the beans are nice and tender.
  • Add The Spinach
    Chop your spinach into manageable chunks and then toss it into your soup. Stir it in and allow them to cook for a minute or two before you move on to the next step.
  • Add Some Stock If The Beans Are Dry
    Add a bit of stock or water to your soup if your beans are thick and dry. Your beans should have a wet and soupy texture. 
  • Remove The Bay Leaves And Serve
    All that is left is to remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning as required. You can serve this soup with a side of your choice.
    We recommend a delicious slice of fresh bread. There is nothing tastier than fresh bread for dipping in black-eyed pea soup.

Notes

  • Adjust to Taste: The recipe is versatile. Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste, such as adding more vegetables, using different meats, or modifying the amount of spices.
  • Soaking Peas: If you use dry black-eyed peas instead of canned, soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time as they take longer.
  • Heat Level: Adding green chilies and black pepper provides a bit of heat to the soup. You can adjust these ingredients based on your preference for spicy food.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Using new ingredients can significantly enhance the soup’s flavor.
  • Garnish: Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh parsley, green onions, or a lemon squeeze can brighten the flavors.
Hanna Barnes

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