Comforting Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe for Family Gatherings

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Black Eyed Pea Soup. The moment you lift that spoon, the aroma wafts through the air, a delightful blend of spices and savory goodness. Each mouthful is a celebration of texture and flavor that dances on your taste buds, transporting you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and love.

Growing up, Black Eyed Pea Soup was synonymous with family gatherings and good fortune. Remembering my grandmother’s secret recipe brings a smile to my face every time. It’s the sort of dish that warms not just your belly but your heart too. Whether it’s New Year’s Day or a chilly winter evening, this soup is always a winner, promising satisfaction and nostalgia with each slurp.

I still remember when I served this soup at a family reunion; everyone went back for seconds and thirds, which made me feel like a culinary superstar.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Black Eyed Peas: Dried peas are ideal for maximum flavor; soak them overnight for best results.

• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they infuse the soup with aromatic warmth.

• Carrots: Use fresh carrots for color and crunch; dice them small for quicker cooking.

• Celery: Celery adds a lovely depth; slice it thinly so it softens nicely in the pot.

• Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping flavors rich.

• Bay Leaves: These leaves enhance the overall flavor; remember to remove them before serving.

• Cumin: Ground cumin adds smokiness; adjust to your taste preference for extra warmth.

• Pepper Flakes: Add some heat with red pepper flakes—just sprinkle lightly unless you like it spicy!

• Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors wonderfully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Black Eyed Pea Soup

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by rinsing the black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water. Soaking them overnight makes them tender and helps reduce cooking time.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and add chopped onions. Cook until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling, about 5 minutes.

Add Veggies: Toss in diced carrots and celery next. Stir frequently until they soften slightly—around 3-4 minutes will do just fine.

Add Peas and Broth: Pour in those lovely soaked black-eyed peas along with vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.

Add Spices: Sprinkle in bay leaves, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Stir well as those spices release their beautiful aromas into the bubbling soup.

Simmer Away: Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until the peas are tender but not mushy. Give it an occasional stir during this time!

Enjoying homemade Black Eyed Pea Soup is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about relishing each moment spent crafting this warm bowl of joy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then add black-eyed peas, broth, and spices. Simmer until tender for the best flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with diced tomatoes or spinach for added texture and nutrition. A splash of vinegar can also enhance the soup’s flavor profile surprisingly well.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve flavor and texture.

I still remember the first time I made black-eyed pea soup for my family. The smiles on their faces were priceless, especially when they asked for seconds!

FAQ

Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?

Absolutely! Just rinse canned peas and reduce cooking time significantly.

What spices work best in black-eyed pea soup?

Cumin, paprika, and bay leaves add depth to your soup’s flavor profile.

Is black-eyed pea soup healthy?

Yes! It’s rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals while being low in calories.

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Black Eyed Pea Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Experience the warmth and nostalgia of homemade Black Eyed Pea Soup, a hearty dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy winter evenings. This easy-to-make soup features tender black-eyed peas simmered with aromatic vegetables and spices, creating a flavorful bowl that is both comforting and nutritious. Enjoy it hot or cold, as a delightful centerpiece for any meal!

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Rinse black-eyed peas under cold water and soak overnight.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic, diced carrots, and sliced celery; cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in soaked black-eyed peas and vegetable broth; bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.
5. Add bay leaves, cumin, and red pepper flakes; stir well.
6. Cover and simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until peas are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally.
7. Before serving, remove bay leaves and stir in lemon juice.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg