Spicy "Hoppin" John Soup
A hearty, spicy black-eyed pea soup with sausage and rice, rich in flavor and perfect for comfort food lovers or those seeking a filling, savory meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak peas in water overnight or bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer 3 minutes.
- Let peas stand for 1 hour.
- Drain tomatoes, reserve liquid, then chop tomatoes.
- Add chopped tomatoes and reserved liquid to the peas.
- Add the hot sausage, chopped onion, chopped celery, salt, chili powder, dried basil leaves, and bay leaf.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours or until peas are tender.
- Dice cooked sausage and return to the soup.
- Add cooked Minute rice, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the rice. You can substitute the hot sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option or use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. If you like it spicier, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to taste. Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight will reduce cooking time significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a slice of Glazed Brisket or a side of Quick And Easy Cabbage Rolls to complement the spices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Spicy 'Hoppin' John Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the soup, and warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy "Hoppin" John Soup contains roughly 313 calories, with 7g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1847mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
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 dried?
Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas if you're short on time. Simply drain and rinse them, then add them to the soup in the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking. This will save you time while still allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the soup.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, a fresh green salad, or even some crusty bread. For a more filling meal, try it alongside Stuffed Pepper With Barbecue Sauce for a delicious contrast of flavors.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the soup?
To adjust the spiciness, you can modify the amount of chili powder used or choose a milder sausage. For an extra kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Always taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.
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).