Black-eyed Pea Soup

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Black-Eyed Pea Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for cozy nights or as a traditional New Year’s meal. This flavorful soup combines tender black-eyed peas with vegetables, smoky bacon or ham, and warming spices. It’s a simple yet nourishing dish packed with protein and fiber, often believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten at the start of the year. Whether served with cornbread or a side of crusty bread, this Black-Eyed Pea Soup is both satisfying and wholesome, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped (or 1 cup diced ham)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the peas and spices: Stir in the soaked and drained black-eyed peas (or canned peas if using), diced tomatoes, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender. Stir occasionally, adding more broth if needed.
  5. Finish the soup: Remove the bay leaf and stir the cooked bacon back into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat if desired.

Enjoy this delicious and filling Black-Eyed Pea Soup as a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year!