black eyed peas chicken soup

Lemon

2 min read

·

04-02-2025

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This isn't your grandma's chicken soup (though she'd probably love it too!). This Black-Eyed Pea Chicken Soup recipe elevates the classic comfort food, adding a nutritious and flavorful twist with the addition of black-eyed peas. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a nourishing meal that's both satisfying and good for you.

Why This Black-Eyed Pea Chicken Soup Recipe Stands Out

Many chicken soup recipes focus solely on chicken broth and vegetables. This recipe distinguishes itself by incorporating black-eyed peas, adding a layer of creamy texture and boosting the nutritional profile significantly. Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, contributing to a more satiating and healthier meal. Furthermore, the careful balance of spices creates a depth of flavor that elevates this soup beyond the ordinary.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup black-eyed peas (rinsed and drained; canned or cooked from dry)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add the Broth and Peas: Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed and drained black-eyed peas. Bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender. If using dried black-eyed peas, you may need to simmer for a longer period, up to an hour, depending on how you prepared them.

4. Add Chicken and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Season with salt to taste. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Add greens: Stir in a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a richer, creamier soup.
• Use bone-in chicken: For a richer broth, use bone-in chicken pieces instead of pre-cooked chicken. Remove the chicken from the pot before shredding and adding it back in.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, corn, or green beans.

Nutritional Benefits of Black-Eyed Peas in Chicken Soup:

Black-eyed peas are a nutritional powerhouse, contributing significant amounts of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals to this soup. The fiber content aids digestion and promotes gut health, while the protein keeps you feeling full and satisfied. This makes this soup a healthy and hearty option for a balanced diet.

Conclusion:

This Black-Eyed Pea Chicken Soup recipe provides a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food. The addition of black-eyed peas adds both flavor and substantial nutritional value, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying and healthy meal. Try it today and experience the deliciousness for yourself!