Crafted with vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients, Smoky Black Eyed Pea Soup with Collard Greens is a delightful dish that warms both the stomach and soul. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or something special for a gathering, this recipe brings together the earthiness of black-eyed peas and the rich texture of collard greens. The combination of seasonings, from smoked paprika to fresh herbs, adds a unique depth, making every spoonful a little more magical.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why choose Smoky Black Eyed Pea Soup with Collard Greens? For starters, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nourishment. Black-eyed peas are not only affordable but also packed with protein and fiber, making this soup a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Plus, it comes together quickly, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
“This soup is like a warm hug on a cold day! The smoky flavor is so comforting, and it’s a hit with everyone in the family.” – A happy home cook
Preparing Smoky Black Eyed Pea Soup with Collard Greens
Ready to dive into this flavor-packed dish? This recipe is straightforward and filled with wholesome ingredients. You’ll start by sautéing vegetables to build a savory base, then toss in the star elements — black-eyed peas and collard greens — and simmer them to perfection. A few herbs and spices enhance the flavor, making it truly unforgettable.
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delicious soup, gather the following ingredients:
- Black-eyed peas: These can be canned or dried (if using dried, soak them beforehand).
- Collard greens: Fresh is best, but frozen can work in a pinch.
- Carrot, onion, celery, and garlic: The aromatic quartet that forms the flavorful base.
- Dried herbs: Thyme, oregano, and basil.
- Smoked paprika: This ingredient is what gives the soup its signature smokiness.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are great, but canned is just fine too.
- Red pepper flakes: For a kick of heat.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Extra layers of flavor.
- Vegetable broth: Use a good-quality broth for the best taste.
Directions to Follow
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the black-eyed peas, collard greens, and vegetable broth.
- Incorporate thyme, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the peas are soft.
- In the final moments of cooking, gently stir in the chopped tomatoes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, then serve hot.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Smoky Black Eyed Pea Soup can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it in bowls topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for visual appeal. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce can enhance the experience. Pair it with buttery cornbread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
How to Store & Freeze
Storing leftovers of this soup is simple! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. If freezing, consider portioning it out for convenient single servings later on.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Flavor Boost: For even more depth, try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving. It brightens up the flavors!
- Cooking Time: If using dried black-eyed peas, make sure to soak them overnight to shorten the cooking time.
- Fresh Greens: If collard greens aren’t available, feel free to swap in kale or spinach. They’ll add their own unique twist.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to mix things up.
- Spicy Option: Add a diced jalapeño alongside the other vegetables to crank up the heat.
- Protein Boost: Include diced smoked sausage or cooked quinoa for additional protein without losing its vegetarian roots.
- Curry Flavor: Incorporate curry powder instead of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile altogether.
Your Questions Answered
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with cooking time around 30-40 minutes, so you can have a hearty meal ready in about an hour!
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! It keeps well and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
What can I substitute for collard greens?
Both kale and mustard greens are excellent substitutes. They’ll change the flavor slightly, but they will keep the dish vibrant and delicious.
This Smoky Black Eyed Pea Soup with Collard Greens is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, nutrition, and comfort food at its best. Happy cooking!
Smoky Black Eyed Pea Soup with Collard Greens
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish that combines the earthiness of black-eyed peas with the rich texture of collard greens, seasoned with smoked paprika and fresh herbs, making it a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups black-eyed peas (canned or dried)
- 2 cups collard greens (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (fresh or canned)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the black-eyed peas, collard greens, and vegetable broth.
- Incorporate thyme, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the peas are soft.
- In the final moments of cooking, gently stir in the chopped tomatoes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, then serve hot.
Notes
For additional flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before serving. If using dried black-eyed peas, soak them overnight to shorten the cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg