Some dishes are more than just meals—they’re a celebration of tradition, comfort, and the joy of bringing people together around the table. Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup is one such dish. This classic recipe is a hearty combination of tender black-eyed peas, savory vegetables, and smoky flavors, making it perfect for cozy nights in, family dinners, or even New Year’s Day celebrations. Imagine a warm, flavorful bowl of soup filled with wholesome ingredients, simmered to perfection, and served with a side of cornbread or rice. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

The first time I made this soup, it was for a New Year’s Day gathering. I wanted something that would honor the tradition of eating black-eyed peas for good luck and prosperity, and this recipe caught my eye. As the soup simmered on the stove, the aroma of smoked ham, onions, and spices filled the house, and my family couldn’t stop asking, “What’s cooking? It smells incredible!” When I finally served the soup, everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. “This tastes just like my grandma’s!” my cousin exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with nostalgia. Since then, Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup has become a cherished recipe in my family.

The first time I served this soup to friends, it was at a casual dinner party. One of my friends, who’s known for her love of hearty, comforting food, had brought her famous chili, and I was a little nervous to present my soup. But as soon as I placed the pot on the table, the rich, smoky aroma started drawing everyone in. “What’s in this?” a friend asked, eyeing the pot curiously. “A little bit of tradition and a lot of flavor,” I replied, smiling. When everyone took their first bite, the room went quiet. Then came the murmurs of approval. “This is amazing!” someone said, reaching for another bowl. Even my chili-loving friend nodded in approval. “You’ve got to give me this recipe,” she said with a smile. That day, Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup became a dinner party favorite, and it’s been a staple at every gathering since.

Why This Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup?

Selling Points:

• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender black-eyed peas, smoky ham, and savory vegetables makes this soup a comfort food classic.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or any occasion that calls for a wholesome dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to make it your own.

What You Need for Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach for added greens

How to Make Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup

1. Prepare the Peas: Soak the black-eyed peas in water overnight, or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 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 and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Ham and Spices: Add the smoked ham hock or diced ham, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup: Add the soaked black-eyed peas, broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
5. Finish the Soup: If using a ham hock, remove it from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the soup. Stir in chopped kale or spinach, if using, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread.

Tips for the Perfect Black-Eyed Pea Soup

• Soak the Peas: Soaking the peas reduces cooking time and ensures even tenderness.
• Use Smoked Ham: Smoked ham hock or diced ham adds a rich, smoky flavor to the soup.
• Low and Slow: Simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Make Ahead: The flavors deepen if made a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lean Protein: Use turkey ham or smoked turkey legs instead of ham hock.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control salt intake.
• Extra Greens: Add more kale, spinach, or collard greens for added vitamins and fiber.

Closing for Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup

This Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the joy of sharing something special with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your soup turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes, use 3-4 cans of drained and rinsed black-eyed peas. Reduce the cooking time to 30 minutes.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.

Can I add other flavors?
Yes, try adding garlic powder, cumin, or oregano to the soup.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What’s the best way to serve this soup?
Serve with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this soup creamier?
Yes, blend a portion of the soup or stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk.

This Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your pot, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Easy Black-Eyed Pea Soup

Recipe by Aisha DevCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted

• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach for added greens

Directions

• Prepare the Peas: Soak the black-eyed peas in water overnight, or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
• Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 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 and cook for another minute.
• Add the Ham and Spices: Add the smoked ham hock or diced ham, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
• Simmer the Soup: Add the soaked black-eyed peas, broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
• Finish the Soup: If using a ham hock, remove it from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the soup. Stir in chopped kale or spinach, if using, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread.