There’s something truly comforting about a pot of Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens bubbling away on the stove. The moment the garlic meets the heat of the olive oil, the kitchen fills with warmth and rich aromas that wrap around you like a cozy blanket. I found myself craving a hearty, wholesome dish to combat the chaos of the week, and this recipe turned out to be the perfect solution.
Not only does this soup celebrate the earthy flavors of black-eyed peas, but it also invites fresh greens to the party, making it a vibrant and nutritious meal. Whether you’re a busy professional wanting a quick weeknight dinner or anyone yearning for a taste of home-cooked goodness, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary delight. So let’s dive into making this soul-soothing soup that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share!
Why is Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens so special?
Comforting warmth: As you savor each spoonful, the rich, welcoming flavors will transport you to a cozy kitchen on a chilly evening.
Healthy ingredients: Packed with nutrients from the black-eyed peas and fresh greens, this soup is both delicious and good for you.
Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish even on your busiest days.
Versatile recipe: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or add a protein for extra heartiness.
Crowd-pleasing sensation: This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that friends and family will rave about!
Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious and nourishing soup that highlights the star of the show, black-eyed peas!
For the Soup
- 1 lb. dry black eyed peas – Soaking these peas helps to soften them, ensuring a quicker cooking time.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil – This adds a lovely richness and depth to the soup.
- 1 onion – Chopped onions create a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced garlic brings a fragrant kick to each hearty bowl.
- 1/2 bunch celery – Celery offers a delightful crunch and balances the soup’s flavors.
- 1 tsp oregano – A hint of oregano adds an aromatic touch that perfectly complements the peas.
- 1/2 Tbsp smoked paprika – This introduces a subtle smokiness that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper – A pinch of cayenne offers a gentle heat, perfect for warming you up!
- Freshly cracked pepper – Use to taste for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- 1 bay leaf – Infuses the broth with a rich, savory aroma as it simmers.
- 6 cups vegetable broth – A flavorful base to bring all the ingredients together beautifully.
- 12 oz. fresh greens – Stir in greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients and color!
This Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens recipe not only warms your belly but also delights your taste buds with every spoonful!
How to Make Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens
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Rinse and soak: Begin by rinsing the dry black-eyed peas thoroughly, then soak them in water for several hours or preferably overnight. This softens the peas and speeds up cooking.
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Heat olive oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced celery. Sauté until they’re softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add spices: Stir in the oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked pepper. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom and enhance the base flavors.
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Combine ingredients: Toss in the soaked black-eyed peas, bay leaf, and vegetable broth into the pot. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, stirring to combine all the ingredients well.
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Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the black-eyed peas are tender. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time!
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Stir in greens: Finally, add the fresh greens to the pot and cook just until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully remove the bay leaf before serving this delicious soup.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens
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Soaking Peas: Rinse and soak your black-eyed peas overnight. This crucial step softens the peas and reduces cooking time for the best results.
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Sautéing Aromatics: Don’t rush the sauté! Cook your onions, garlic, and celery until they are softened and fragrant; it builds a flavor base that enriches the entire dish.
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Season to Taste: Adjust seasonings carefully. Remember that spices like cayenne pepper are potent! Start with less and add to your taste, ensuring a balanced flavor in your soup.
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Skimming Foam: While boiling, skim off any foam that develops on the surface of the soup. This keeps your broth clear and enhances the dish’s appeal.
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Adding Greens: Stir the fresh greens in at the end of cooking. This preserves their vibrant color and nutrients, adding freshness to your Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens.
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Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors only deepen after a day, making for an even better lunch!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing for convenient meals later.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens.
Portioning: Consider freezing in individual servings for easy and quick lunches or dinners of your delicious Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens!
Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists, making this soup uniquely yours!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes for an extra heat boost that’ll warm you from the inside out.
The friendly zing of spice complements the earthy peas, making each bowl irresistibly exciting. -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill, which can greatly elevate the flavor profile.
Fresh herbs bring a vibrant aroma that transforms your soup into a fragrant culinary experience. -
Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a creamy finish that adds a delightful tropical twist.
This simple addition creates a silky texture while enhancing the dish’s richness effortlessly. -
Protein-Packed: Toss in diced cooked sausage or chicken for an added source of protein and heartiness.
Not only does this enhance the soup’s texture, but it also makes it feel like a complete meal. -
Vegetable Medley: Throw in chopped carrots, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for a batch that’s bursting with color and nutrition.
This playful mix not only provides visual appeal but also rounds out the dish with an array of flavors. -
Garnish Delight: Top your soup with crumbled feta or a squeeze of fresh lime for brightness and tang.
These finishing touches can elevate the dish, providing an added layer of flavor to each spoonful. -
Grain Boost: Serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a filling, wholesome option that turns soup into a satisfying meal.
These grains complement the soup perfectly, offering a delicious contrast in texture and enhancing the health benefits.
With these variations, you can easily customize the Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens to suit your cravings and add your unique touch!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can soak the black-eyed peas up to 24 hours in advance, which not only saves time but also helps them cook faster. Additionally, feel free to chop the onion, garlic, and celery ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the olive oil, sauté your prepped vegetables, and add the soaking peas, broth, and spices for a quick finish. For the freshest flavor, stir in your greens just before serving, ensuring they retain their vibrant color and nutrients. Enjoy restaurant-quality comfort in no time!
What to Serve with Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens?
Cozy up your dinner table with these delightful accompaniments that enhance the warmth of your comforting soup.
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette for dipping soaks up the rich flavors beautifully while satisfying your carb cravings.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, moist cornbread adds a delightful texture contrast, making each bite unforgettable. The buttery richness perfectly complements the hearty soup.
- Simple Side Salad: Fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brighten the meal, balancing the warmth of the soup with refreshing crunch.
- Pickled Vegetables: The tangy zest of pickles enhances the soup’s flavors, providing a surprising and tasty contrast with every spoonful.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness works wonderfully alongside the savory notes of the beans, making for a balanced and nutritious spread.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs creates a wonderful base for the soup, allowing you to enjoy every delicious drop.
- Spicy Hot Sauce: For those who like a kick, a dash of hot sauce brings this comforting dish to life and adds a layer of excitement.
- Lemon Water: A refreshing, zesty drink that cleanses the palate and enhances the flavors of the soup in each and every sip.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal with a sweet note; warm cookies offer comfort and hits the perfect sweet spot after your nutritious course.
- Iced Tea: A glass of unsweetened iced tea adds a cooling element, making it a refreshing companion to the warm, soothing soup.
Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens Recipe FAQs
What kind of black-eyed peas should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for dried black-eyed peas for this recipe. When selecting your peas, look for those that are uniform in color and free from dark spots or blemishes, as these can affect the flavor and texture of your soup.
How should I store leftovers?
You can store any leftover Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend letting it cool completely before sealing the container. This way, the soup retains its delicious flavors and freshness!
Can I freeze this soup?
Very! To freeze your Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens, first, allow the soup to cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup has thickened more than you like, there’s no need to worry! Just add a little vegetable broth or water, a splash at a time, while gently stirring over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This will bring the dish back to its original, comforting texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan as well. If you have allergies, be cautious with the cayenne pepper; it can irritate those sensitive to spiciness. Additionally, always check that your vegetable broth is allergy-friendly. If cooking for pets, consult your veterinarian before serving any human food to them.
Can I add additional vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens by adding other vegetables you enjoy, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers. Just chop them up and add them during the sautéing step, allowing them to cook until tender with the onion and celery. The more the merrier!
Delicious Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by rinsing the dry black-eyed peas thoroughly, then soak them in water for several hours or preferably overnight.
- In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced celery. Sauté until they’re softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
- Toss in the soaked black-eyed peas, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the black-eyed peas are tender.
- Add the fresh greens to the pot and cook just until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully remove the bay leaf before serving.