Hearty Healthy Black Eyed Pea Soup 🍲🌱

This nutritious and comforting soup is a delightful way to warm up your day while enjoying the goodness of black-eyed peas. Packed with vegetables and flavor, it serves as a perfect meal for any season and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy it on its own or serve it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for a filling lunch or dinner! 🍞✨

Ingredients

For the soup

• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

• If using dried black-eyed peas, soak them overnight in water. Rinse well before cooking.

🍽️ Soaking the beans not only reduces cooking time but also helps in digestion by reducing gas.

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

• Stir in the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

• Add the smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.

• Add the soaked black-eyed peas (or canned ones), diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

• Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender. If using canned peas, simmer for 15-20 minutes.

• Fold in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.

• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.

• Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

🌿 Adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors and enhance the dish's freshness.

Variations

• Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick! 🔥
• Protein boost: Stir in some cooked turkey sausage or grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Vegan-friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan! However, for added richness, you can blend a cup of the soup and return it to the pot for a creamier texture.
• Herb-infused: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or bay leaves while the soup simmers for an aromatic touch.
• Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Enjoy this hearty black-eyed pea soup as a healthy and satisfying meal any day of the week! 🌟🥄