Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish, this black-eyed pea soup with crispy bacon is an excellent choice. Packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients, this delicious recipe is perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying. The combination of seasonings, fresh vegetables, and crispy bacon will make this soup a favorite for your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– ½ pound bacon
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 large yellow onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon Bouquet Garni herb seasoning
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
– ½-1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, primarily due to the soaking of the black-eyed peas.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook time: 1 to 1½ hours
– Total time: About 2 hours and 10 minutes
– Yield: Serves about 6
This black-eyed pea soup offers a delightful blend of flavors that cater to a crowd, making it not only a hearty meal but also a perfect option for gatherings or family dinners. Enjoy a warm bowl today!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas
Rinse the black-eyed peas and discard any that are damaged or dark. Place them in a large pot over high heat, add 4 cups of broth, and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes, cover the pot, remove from heat, and let them soak for 1 hour without lifting the lid or draining the beans.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cut the bacon into ¼-inch slices and cook in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the Dutch oven and cook until translucent. Reduce the heat to low, add the minced garlic, and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring often.
Step 4: Deglaze and Add Seasonings
Slowly add 2 cups of water while scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Add the Bouquet Garni, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Set the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat until the peas have softened.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
After the peas have softened (about 1 hour), add them along with the broth to the onion mixture in the Dutch oven and stir well. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and add all except 3 tablespoons of the crisped bacon. Cover and simmer until the peas are tender, about 1 to 1½ hours, stirring every 20 minutes. Season with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with the reserved crispy bacon and chopped parsley.
Notes
Note 1: Bean Quality
Ensure that the black-eyed peas are fresh and free from damage for the best texture and flavor.
Note 2: Cooking Time
The simmering time may vary depending on the age and size of the black-eyed peas, so adjust accordingly.
Note 3: Bacon Alternatives
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
Note 4: Adjusting Spice Levels
Modify the amount of hot sauce to suit your personal taste for heat.
Note 5: Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Cook techniques
Rinsing and Soaking Black-Eyed Peas
Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water, removing any damaged or dark beans. Soak them in boiling broth for 1 hour to soften before cooking.
Crisping Bacon
Cut bacon into ¼-inch slices and cook in a Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. This adds flavor and texture to the dish.
Sautéing Onions and Garlic
Cook diced onions in bacon fat until translucent, then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to enhance the flavor base.
Deglazing the Pot
Add water gradually while scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate the flavorful bits left from cooking the bacon and onions.
Simmering
Once all ingredients are combined, simmer the mixture on low heat, allowing flavors to meld and peas to become tender.
Final Seasoning and Garnishing
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. Ladle the dish into bowls, topping it with reserved crispy bacon and fresh parsley for a flavorful finish.
FAQ
Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas. However, reduce the cooking time, as they are already cooked.
What can I substitute for bacon?
You can use turkey bacon, pancetta, or a plant-based bacon alternative for a different flavor or to make the dish vegetarian.
Is it necessary to soak the black-eyed peas?
Soaking helps to soften the peas and reduce cooking time, but if you’re in a hurry, you can cook them without soaking by increasing the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
The black-eyed peas soup enriched with bacon and aromatic seasonings delivers a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors from the herbs, bacon, and vegetables creates a delightful dish that not only satisfies but also warms the soul. Enjoy it garnished with crispy bacon and fresh parsley for an added touch.
Classic Hoppin’ John
A Southern staple, combining black-eyed peas with rice and smoked sausage, this dish is traditionally served on New Year’s Day for good luck.
Black-Eyed Peas Salad
Make a refreshing salad by mixing cooked black-eyed peas with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil for a zesty side.
Vegetarian Black-Eyed Peas Stew
Substitute bacon with mushrooms or tempeh to create a rich, savory vegetarian stew full of vegetables, beans, and spices.
Spicy Black-Eyed Peas Dip
Blend cooked black-eyed peas with garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and hot sauce for a creamy and spicy dip perfect for parties.
Black-Eyed Peas Curry
Cook black-eyed peas in coconut milk with curry spices, tomatoes, and spinach for a delicious and hearty dish bursting with flavor.
