Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

Warm Up with This Easy Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe Today!

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of hearty soup. One of my all-time favorites is black-eyed pea soup, a dish that blends rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and the satisfying comfort of a home-cooked meal. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different versions, from adding smoky sausage to keeping it light and vegan. Today, I’m excited to share my perfected Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe that’s versatile, quick, and simply delicious.

Whether you prefer cooking with a crock pot, making it vegetarian or with sausage, or even adding vibrant collard greens, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into the details of making the best black-eyed pea soup that suits your taste and lifestyle.

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Why Black-Eyed Pea Soup Is the Best Choice

When it comes to hearty, healthy meals, black-eyed pea soup is a top contender. It’s packed with nutrients: black-eyed peas are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The soup is perfect for meal prep, tastes even better the next day, and can be customized endlessly. I love that it’s equally satisfying whether you include sausage for a smoky flavor or keep it plant-based with fresh veggies and herbs.

I’ve also found this soup is perfect for using up leftovers. Have some wilted greens or a lone carrot in your fridge? Toss them in! This soup thrives on creativity, making it a practical yet indulgent dish.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make this amazing soup:

Base Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

1 medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, diced

For the Soup

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added richness)

2 cups canned black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed

1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

1 cup collard greens, chopped

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

Additions for Different Variations

1 cup cooked smoked sausage, sliced (for non-vegetarian)

1 tsp Italian seasoning (for a herbaceous touch)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or crock pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

2. Add the Black-Eyed Peas and Broth

Stir in the black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Simmer with Greens and Optional Sausage

Add the collard greens and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. If using sausage, stir it in during the last 10 minutes to warm it through.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or a splash of hot sauce for extra zing.

Products I Love for Making This Recipe

1. Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)

I’ve relied on this slow cooker for years to make soups like this one effortless. With its programmable settings, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a perfectly cooked meal. It’s a game-changer for busy days.

Upgrade your kitchen game with this reliable crock pot—check it out on Amazon now.

A Book Recommendation for Soup Lovers

“Soup Night: Recipes for Creating Community Around a Pot of Soup” by Maggie Stuckey

This book is my go-to source of inspiration for hearty and flavorful soups. It’s filled with recipes, tips, and stories that make soup-making a communal, heartwarming experience.

Get inspired with this incredible collection of soup recipes—grab your copy on Amazon here.

Tips for the Best Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe

1. Using Canned Peas for Convenience:

Canned black-eyed peas save time without sacrificing flavor. Be sure to rinse them to remove excess sodium.

2. Ingredients for Maximum Flavor:

While canned peas are convenient, fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the soup’s taste.

3. Balancing Flavors:

Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper add depth. If you prefer a lighter flavor, use Italian seasoning instead.

4. Storage and Leftovers:

This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. It also freezes well—perfect for meal prep.

Why I Love This Recipe

Writing this blog post brought back memories of chilly evenings when I’d whip up a pot of black-eyed pea soup for my family. The scent of garlic and smoked paprika wafting through the kitchen was always a signal that something delicious was on the table. Over time, I’ve tailored the recipe to accommodate different diets and preferences, so I know it’s versatile enough for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want a comforting solo meal, this easy black-eyed pea soup recipe will quickly become a favorite. Try it today, and let me know how it turns out!