Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy soup that transports you straight to the heart of the Southern United States? Look no further! This black-eyed pea soup recipe is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It's packed with wholesome ingredients, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly quick to make. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying recipe, a true testament to the best recipes Southern cuisine has to offer.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Adjust the quantities accordingly if you need more or less.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15-ounce) can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions:
This black-eyed pea soup recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks looking for quick dinner ideas.
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer, deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste the soup and season with salt as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. This healthy meal is perfect for a satisfying and comforting dinner.
Tips for the Best Black-Eyed Pea Soup:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, omit it altogether. Experiment with other spices like cumin or oregano for a unique twist.
- Make it a meal: Add cooked ham or sausage for a heartier soup. Cooked greens like collard greens or kale also add a delightful depth of flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients: When possible, use fresh vegetables for a brighter flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy Black-Eyed Pea Soup: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or coconut milk before serving for a creamier texture.
- Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Pea Soup: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 10-12g
- Fiber: Approximately 8-10g
This delicious and easy black-eyed pea soup recipe is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of healthy meals. It's a great example of simple, flavorful food that's perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy!