Imagine wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of Black Eyed Pea Soup (Vegan) on a chilly evening. The rich aroma of garlic, spices, and fresh herbs fills the air, inviting you to take that first comforting spoonful. Each bite reveals the delightful creaminess of black-eyed peas, perfectly balanced with vibrant vegetables that add both texture and flavor.
This hearty soup is not just delicious; it is also packed with nutrition and plant-based goodness that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a soul-soothing dish for a cozy gathering, this recipe fits the bill beautifully.
Get ready to learn how to create this easy and nourishing bowl of comfort food that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Enjoy the journey of cooking this delightful soup that’s as wholesome as it is heartwarming!
Why You’ll Love This Black Eyed Pea Soup (Vegan)
This hearty soup is a delightful blend of flavors and nourishment, making it a must-try for your next meal!
- Quick to prepare — Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights.
- Budget-friendly — Made with affordable pantry staples, this recipe won’t break the bank.
- Kid-approved — Its creamy texture and mild taste make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
- Perfect for meal prep — Make a big batch and store it for delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Uses simple ingredients — Featuring whole foods that you can easily find at your local grocery store.
- Healthy and nutritious — Packed with fiber and protein, it’s a great option for a wholesome diet.
- One-pot wonder — Enjoy minimal cleanup with this easy-to-make, mess-free meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups black-eyed peas (dried, rinsed and soaked overnight)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 1 bell pepper (diced, any color)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (ground)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned, with juices)
For Garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Sliced green onions
- Lemon wedges
Equipment Needed
- Large pot (at least 6-quart capacity) for simmering the soup
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurements
- Cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Sharp knife for dicing ingredients
- Blender or immersion blender for pureeing (optional but helpful)
- Large ladle for serving
How to Make Black Eyed Pea Soup (Vegan)
Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse the black-eyed peas. In a colander, rinse 1 cup of dried black-eyed peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak them in a bowl of water for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Chop the vegetables. Dice 1 onion, 2 carrots, and 2 stalks of celery into small pieces. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and set aside.
- Prepare the spices. Gather 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Set aside for later use.
Cook the Soup
- Heat the oil. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering.
- Sauté the vegetables. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the garlic and spices. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add liquid and peas. Pour in 4 cups (960 mL) of vegetable broth and add the soaked black-eyed peas. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer the soup. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and season. After simmering, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. For added flavor, squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon.
Serve the Soup
- Garnish if desired. Serve the soup in bowls and top with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
- Store leftovers. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
Tips for the Best Black Eyed Pea Soup (Vegan)
- Soak your peas overnight — This reduces cooking time and helps achieve a creamier texture. After soaking, drain and rinse before adding to the soup.
- Don’t skip the aromatics — Sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots at the beginning builds a flavorful base. Take your time to get them golden before adding other ingredients.
- Adjust spices carefully — Start with less cumin and cayenne, then taste and adjust as needed. This prevents the soup from becoming too spicy for sensitive palates.
- Include a splash of acidity — A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar just before serving brightens the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- Use vegetable broth for richness — Opt for a quality low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water. This adds depth to your soup’s flavor profile.
- Make it ahead — Black-eyed pea soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Black Eyed Pea Soup — Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a tablespoon of chipotle in adobo for a smoky kick.
- Herbed Delight — Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley towards the end of cooking for a burst of freshness.
- Coconut Curry Version — Replace part of the vegetable broth with coconut milk and add curry powder for a creamy, exotic twist.
- Add Leafy Greens — Toss in a couple of handfuls of kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
How to Store Black Eyed Pea Soup (Vegan)
Room Temperature: Black Eyed Pea Soup should not be stored at room temperature for more than 2 hours due to food safety concerns.
Refrigerator: Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezer: This soup freezes well! Portion it into individual containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
For best results, reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. If using an oven, preheat to 350°F and warm in a covered dish for approximately 15 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep the ingredients in advance—chop vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and cook the soup when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving. Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
| Serving Size | 1 cup |
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Total Fat | 1.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fiber | 10g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas for a quicker option. Just rinse and drain them, and add them to the soup in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to warm through.
Is this black-eyed pea soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any vegetable broth used is also labeled gluten-free if you are particularly sensitive.
How should I store leftovers of black-eyed pea soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
I want to double the recipe for a gathering; is that possible?
Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased volume while allowing for proper simmering.
Why did my soup turn out too thick?
If your soup is too thick, you can add additional vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the soup will thicken upon cooling, so adjust accordingly while still cooking.
What can I serve with this black-eyed pea soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or cornbread for a comforting meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of vegan sour cream for added creaminess.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — a nourishing and delicious Black Eyed Pea Soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners or as a hearty lunch option. With its simple preparation and vibrant flavors, this vegan delight is an excellent choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike.
We encourage you to give it a try and immerse yourself in the comforting goodness of this dish. After you’ve tasted it, please share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends on social media. Bookmark it for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and fulfilling!