Black-Eyed Pea Soup With Ham
A hearty and flavorful black-eyed pea soup with ham, featuring smoky, savory notes perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions, celery, green pepper, garlic, salt pork, and ham until fragrant and slightly browned.
- Bring black-eyed peas to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the sautéed mixture to the boiling black-eyed peas.
- Add tomato sauce and simmer until black-eyed peas are tender and flavors meld.
- Serve hot with white rice as a side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider incorporating spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to enhance the flavor profile. You can substitute salt pork with bacon for a similar smoky flavor. If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of water will enrich the soup's taste, making it a great option for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Black-Eyed Pea Soup hot, ideally with a side of fluffy white rice to soak up the flavorful broth. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the dish. It pairs beautifully with Grandma's Red Beans And Rice for a hearty meal. Enjoy with crusty bread for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black-Eyed Pea Soup With Ham contains roughly 574 calories, with 14g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1280mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black-eyed peas. Simply soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This may take longer, but it enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
What if I don't have ham?
If you don't have ham, you can substitute it with smoked turkey, bacon, or even omit the meat for a vegetarian version. Adding a touch of liquid smoke can help replicate the savory flavor that ham provides.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To add heat to the soup, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick, tailoring it to your spice preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).