Name: Black Eyed Pea Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups black-eyed peas (soaked overnight, drained and rinsed); 1 pound Italian sausage (bulk); 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin); 1 large yellow onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 6 cups chicken broth; 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes; 3 bay leaves; 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme; 3/4 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 bunch kale ((or greens of choice, e.g., collards, Swiss chard, spinach, etc), washed, tough stalks removed, chopped); Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated for serving)

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There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of Black Eyed Pea Soup on a chilly winter day. I still remember the first time I had it; it was at a friend’s house during the holidays, and I was instantly hooked. The soup was rich and hearty, filled with flavors that danced on my palate, and it quickly became a winter staple in my kitchen. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, and Black Eyed Pea Soup has that magic touch that brings everyone together. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fire or sharing a bowl with friends, it’s a dish that warms the heart as much as it warms the body.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
70 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Saucepan, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board

The Charm of This Black Eyed Pea Soup

1. Hearty and Satisfying

The blend of ingredients in Black Eyed Pea Soup makes it incredibly hearty. The combination of the creamy black-eyed peas and the savory sausage creates a filling meal that keeps you satisfied.

2. Packed with Flavor

With aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, along with the fresh notes of kale, this soup bursts with flavor. Each bite offers a new layer of taste, ensuring you won’t get bored.

3. Easy to Prepare

You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to whip up Black Eyed Pea Soup. It’s straightforward and can be cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering incredible taste.

4. Perfect for Leftovers

This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready in no time.

5. Versatile Ingredients

Feel free to explore different greens or spices. Black Eyed Pea Soup is adaptable; you can make it your own by adding seasonal vegetables or experimenting with spices.

Ingredient List for Black Eyed Pea Soup

When it comes to Black Eyed Pea Soup, the ingredients are what bring it to life. Each component works in harmony to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. The key players here are the black-eyed peas, which provide a creamy texture, and the sausage, which adds a rich, savory flavor. The broth and herbs tie everything together, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

2 cups dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight, drained and rinsed: The star of the dish, these peas are protein-packed and create a creamy base for the soup.
1 pound bulk Italian sausage: This adds a depth of flavor and a hearty texture that complements the peas beautifully.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle of this oil enhances the flavor and helps sauté the onions.
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped: The onion provides a sweet, aromatic foundation for the soup.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the soup to another level.
6 cups chicken broth: This rich liquid is the backbone of the soup, infusing it with flavor.
14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes contribute acidity and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
3 bay leaves: These leaves add a subtle, earthy flavor that enhances the taste of the soup.
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients, adding a hint of earthiness.
3/4 teaspoon dried rosemary: Rosemary lends a fragrant touch that you can taste in every spoonful.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of the soup.
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A sprinkle of pepper enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
1 bunch kale (or greens of choice, e.g., collards, Swiss chard, spinach, etc), washed, tough stalks removed, chopped: Greens add texture and nutrition, making the soup vibrant and healthy.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving: A sprinkle of cheese on top adds richness and a touch of creaminess.

Cooking Instructions for Black Eyed Pea Soup

Cooking Black Eyed Pea Soup is a simple yet rewarding process. You’ll find that the steps are straightforward, allowing you to create a delicious meal without any fuss. Let’s dive into how to bring this comforting soup to life.

In a large pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until most of the pink is gone. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to smell incredible and develop a nice golden color.
Add the olive oil and the finely chopped onion. Sauté them together, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. The onions will become fragrant and slightly sweet during this time.
Once the onion is softened, add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. You want it just fragrant.
Now, it’s time to add all the remaining ingredients except for the kale. This includes the soaked and drained black-eyed peas, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil. As it heats up, it will start bubbling away, releasing a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour. You want the black-eyed peas to become tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
After 1 hour, check the peas. If they’re tender, it’s time to add the chopped kale. Stir in the kale and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes. The kale should be wilted and vibrant.
Finally, taste your Black Eyed Pea Soup and adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as needed. You can sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for that extra touch of creaminess.
Serve your soup warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors that come from this heartwarming dish. If you have leftovers, they taste even better the next day!

Things Worth Knowing

Soaking the Peas: Soaking dried black-eyed peas overnight helps them cook faster and results in a creamier texture.
Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, feel free to add more chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Flavor Development: The flavors of Black Eyed Pea Soup deepen when allowed to sit, so it’s a great dish to make ahead of time.
Storing: Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Black Eyed Pea Soup turns out perfectly, keep these handy tips in mind. They can help elevate your cooking game and ensure the best results!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This soup keeps well for up to five days!
Freezing: You can freeze Black Eyed Pea Soup for up to three months. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: Consider pairing this hearty soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or additional Parmesan cheese makes for a lovely finishing touch.
Cooking Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep as it tastes even better the next day!
Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Experimenting can lead to delightful new flavors!

Serving Options for Black Eyed Pea Soup

When it comes to serving Black Eyed Pea Soup, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here are some great ideas:

With Crusty Bread: Serve piping hot soup with slices of crusty artisan bread for dipping.
Perfect for Lunch: This soup makes for a satisfying lunch option, whether at home or packed for work.
Family Dinners: It’s an excellent dish to share during family dinners or gatherings, as it can easily be made in large batches.
Comfort Food: Ideal for cozy nights in, this soup is the ultimate comfort food during the cold winter months.
Pair with Side Salads: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
Seasonal Serving: Enjoy it during winter gatherings or as part of your New Year’s Day meal for good luck!

FAQ

Absolutely! Dried black-eyed peas create a richer flavor and texture in the soup. Just remember to soak them overnight for the best results.

Black Eyed Pea Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Yes! To make a vegetarian version of Black Eyed Pea Soup, simply omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add extra vegetables to enhance the flavor.

Black Eyed Pea Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. You could also serve it with rice for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

What makes Black Eyed Pea Soup special is its comforting warmth and layered flavors that come together in a single pot. It’s a dish that not only fills your belly but warms your heart, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. I’m excited for you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious soup tonight!