Description

Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, Black-Eyed Pea Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food. This easy dinner idea comes together with everyday ingredients like black-eyed peas, carrots, celery, garlic, and aromatic herbs, simmered into a savory broth. It’s a healthy, protein-packed soup perfect for a quick lunch, a nourishing dinner, or weekly meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome vegan dish, a gluten-free comfort bowl, or easy food ideas for cooler days, this recipe has you covered. It’s rich, rustic, and full of love—perfect for any day you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
6 cups vegetable broth or water
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 bay leaf

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup chopped tomatoes
2 cups chopped greens (spinach, kale, or collards)
Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Dice all vegetables and mince the garlic.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6–7 minutes.
Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes more.
Add black-eyed peas and stir to coat.
Pour in broth and drop in the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer:
- 45–60 mins for dried peas
- 20–25 mins for canned peas
During the last 10–15 minutes, add chopped tomatoes and greens (if using).
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes