Welcome the New Year with a bowl of tradition and warmth! Our New Year's Day Black Eyed Peas Soup is not just a delicious dish; it’s a symbol of prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this Southern classic will have your taste buds dancing and your heart full. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it the perfect addition to your festive celebrations. Ready to discover how to whip up this delightful soup that promises to bring joy and luck to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups black eyed peas, soaked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the soaked black eyed peas thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or impurities.
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced carrots to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the soaked black eyed peas to the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the black eyed peas are tender but not mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the soup appears too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Soak the Peas: For the best texture and flavor, soak the black eyed peas overnight. This will help them cook evenly and reduce cooking time.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and slightly golden for a deeper flavor base.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more vegetable broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with additional herbs like bay leaves or smoked paprika for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight for a truly comforting meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 210kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
