Crockpot Black-eyed Pea Soup with Ham and Greens

Introduction

History

Black-eyed peas have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, with their origins dating back to West Africa. They were brought to the United States by African slaves and quickly became a popular ingredient in traditional Southern dishes. Black-eyed pea soup with ham and greens is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by generations of Southern cooks, who appreciate its comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to the soup, try sautéing the onions, garlic, and carrots before adding them to the crockpot.

- For a thicker soup, mash some of the black-eyed peas with a fork before adding them to the crockpot.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika.

- For a vegetarian version of the soup, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables would also make a great accompaniment.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a crockpot to slowly simmer the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to meld and develop over time. This cooking technique results in a rich and flavorful soup that is perfect for a busy day when you don't have time to watch over a pot on the stove.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have black-eyed peas, you can use other types of beans, such as kidney beans or navy beans.

- Feel free to use any type of greens you have on hand, such as kale, collard greens, or Swiss chard.

- If you don't have cider vinegar, you can use white vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation. Serve the soup in colorful bowls or mugs for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This black-eyed pea soup pairs well with a variety of dishes, including cornbread, biscuits, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, serve it with grilled chicken or pork chops for a satisfying and delicious dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a saucepan and heat it over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a satisfying and nourishing meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this black-eyed pea soup with ham and greens contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, and they are essential for fueling your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 5 grams of fat. The fat in this recipe comes primarily from the ham, which adds richness and flavor to the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and it is important for overall health and well-being.

Vitamins and minerals

This black-eyed pea soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are important for maintaining a healthy immune system, supporting proper growth and development, and promoting overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains ham, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals. If you have a sensitivity or allergy to pork products, you can easily omit the ham from the recipe or substitute it with a different protein source.

Summary

Overall, this black-eyed pea soup with ham and greens is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

Summary

Black-eyed pea soup with ham and greens is a comforting and nourishing dish that is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day. This recipe is easy to make and full of flavor, making it a great option for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Enjoy the earthy flavors of black-eyed peas, the smoky richness of ham, and the freshness of greens in this delicious and satisfying soup.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Crockpot Black-eyed Pea Soup with Ham and Greens. It was a crisp autumn day, with leaves falling from the trees and a chill in the air. I was visiting my dear friend Mary, who was known in our small town for her delicious home-cooked meals.

As soon as I walked into Mary's cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the warm and inviting aroma of simmering soup. Mary was busy chopping vegetables and stirring a large pot on the stove. She looked up and smiled as I entered, beckoning me over to the counter where she had laid out the ingredients for the soup.

"Have you ever tried black-eyed pea soup before?" Mary asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement. I shook my head, intrigued by the unfamiliar dish before me. Mary explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

As she guided me through the steps of preparing the soup, I listened intently, taking mental notes of each ingredient and technique. The black-eyed peas were soaked overnight, then combined with diced ham, onions, garlic, and a medley of spices in the crockpot. After several hours of slow cooking, Mary added a generous handful of fresh greens to the pot, allowing them to wilt and infuse the soup with their vibrant flavors.

As the soup simmered away, filling the kitchen with its rich aroma, Mary regaled me with stories of her family and the traditions that had shaped her love of cooking. She spoke fondly of her grandmother, who had always believed that a good meal was a way to bring people together and nourish both body and soul.

By the time the soup was ready to be served, I felt as though I had been granted a glimpse into Mary's world, a world where recipes were more than just instructions – they were a link to the past, a connection to loved ones who had long since passed.

As we sat down to enjoy the steaming bowls of black-eyed pea soup, I couldn't help but marvel at the depth of flavor and complexity of taste that had been achieved with such simple ingredients. The creamy peas, tender ham, and tender greens melded together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

As I savored each spoonful of soup, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire. It was more than just a dish to me – it was a reminder of the power of food to transcend time and space, to bring people together and create lasting memories.

Years have passed since that day in Mary's kitchen, but the memory of that delicious black-eyed pea soup has stayed with me. Whenever I make it now, I think of my dear friend and the stories she shared with me that autumn afternoon. And I am reminded once again of the enduring power of a good meal to nourish not just the body, but the spirit as well.

Categories

| American Recipes | Bean Soup Recipes | Black-eyed Pea Recipes | Carrot Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cider Vinegar Recipes | Collard Greens Recipes | Crockpot Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Ham Recipes | Onion Recipes |

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