Ham And Black-Eyed Pea Soup
A hearty and flavorful ham and black-eyed pea soup, perfect for comforting meals. Rich in smoky ham and seasoned with sage and thyme, ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan, bring 4 cups water and black-eyed peas to boiling for 10 minutes; drain and rinse.
- In a 4-quart electric crockery cooker, combine chicken broth, water, ham, carrots, celery, onion, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the rinsed peas.
- Cook in slow cooker for 6 to 7 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or kale to the mix. If you don't have black-eyed peas, you can substitute them with canned chickpeas. For a vegan option, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you prefer a spicier soup by adding more red pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham and Black-Eyed Pea Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. A simple side salad, like Pine Nut Salad, complements the soup nicely. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with a light dessert or fruit to balance the meal. This soup is perfect for cozy gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Black-Eyed Pea Soup contains roughly 219 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dry?
Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas to save time. Drain and rinse them, then add them to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. This prevents them from becoming too soft and mushy.
What can I substitute for ham?
You can replace ham with smoked turkey or bacon for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or liquid smoke to add depth without the meat.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for heat.
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).