Black-Eyed Pea Soup

This Black-Eyed Pea Soup is a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with smoked sausage, ground beef, black-eyed peas, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, this comforting soup delivers a rich and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make in one pot, and perfect for chilly nights or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Southern recipe or a comforting soup that’s both delicious and filling, this Black-Eyed Pea Soup is the perfect choice. It’s a great family meal, and it’s also easy to customize with different meats or beans. Plus, this soup is freezer-friendly, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

This hearty Black-Eyed Pea Soup is packed with flavorful ingredients like smoked sausage, lean ground beef, and savory seasonings. It’s a comforting, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave a satisfying, one-pot meal. The combination of black-eyed peas, tomatoes, and aromatic spices creates a rich and delicious soup that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bulk pork sausage (e.g., Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cups water
• 3 (15 oz) cans black-eyed peas, drained
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers (e.g., ROTEL)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¾ tsp salt
• 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles (e.g., ROTEL)
• 4 tsp molasses
• 4 beef bouillon cubes
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp ground cumin

Instructions:

1. Cook the meats: In a large Dutch oven, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the meat is fully cooked.
2. Add sausage: Slice the smoked sausage and add it to the pot, cooking for an additional few minutes.
3. Add tomatoes and chiles: Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the can of chopped green chiles.
4. Add black-eyed peas: Add the drained black-eyed peas to the pot.
5. Combine remaining ingredients: Pour in the water, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, beef bouillon cubes, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Tips

• For a thicker soup: If you prefer a thicker texture, you can mash some of the black-eyed peas with a potato masher before adding them to the soup.
• Adjust heat level: For spicier soup, use an extra can of diced tomatoes with green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Slow Cooker Option: To make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the meat and onion on the stove first, then transfer to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: If you don’t like pork sausage, you can substitute it with turkey sausage or smoked chicken sausage for a lighter version. Ground turkey can also be used in place of beef.
• Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, omit the meats and substitute with plant-based sausage or additional beans like pinto or kidney beans.
• Other Beans: Feel free to mix in other beans, such as white beans or black beans, for variety.

FAQs

Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned? Yes, if using dried black-eyed peas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.

Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Is there a way to make this soup spicier? Yes, you can add more diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this hearty soup with cornbread or warm crusty bread on the side.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Black-Eyed Pea Soup is a true comfort food with its blend of savory meats, hearty beans, and flavorful spices. It’s a filling, easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The smoky sausage and ground beef complement the earthy black-eyed peas, while the tomatoes and spices add depth and warmth to the dish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold night or a dish to share with family and friends, this Black-Eyed Pea Soup is sure to become a favorite!