If you are searching for a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Soup Recipe is just what you need. It beautifully combines the earthy, buttery black-eyed peas with smoky, crisp bacon and a melody of herbs and spices that create a rich, soul-satisfying bowl of soup. Every spoonful offers a comforting balance of creamy texture and bold flavors, making it a perfect meal to share with loved ones or to enjoy on a quiet night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet powerful enough to deliver layers of flavor, texture, and color in this soup. Each one plays a vital role, from the smoky depth of bacon to the herbal complexity of the seasonings, all coming together to make this Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Soup Recipe unforgettable.
- Bacon (½ lb.): Adds a smoky, crispy punch and renders flavorful fat to cook the aromatics.
- Dried black-eyed peas (1 lb.): The star ingredient providing hearty, creamy body and subtle earthiness.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups): Forms the soup’s savory base, infusing peas with rich umami.
- Large yellow onion (diced): Offers sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Provides aromatic warmth and subtle spice.
- Water (2 cups): Used for simmering and balancing the broth’s concentration.
- Bouquet Garni herb seasoning (1 tsp): Adds fragrant herb notes for complexity.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Contributes a familiar mix of Mediterranean herbs.
- Bay leaves (2): Impart subtle earthy, aromatic depth during the simmering process.
- Granulated sugar (1 tsp): Balances acidity and enhances overall flavor.
- Kosher salt (2 tsp): Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors to harmony.
- Ground black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a mild kick and background heat.
- Tabasco or other hot sauce (½ to 1 tsp): Delivers a gentle spicy zing to awaken the palate.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp): Brightens the soup with a subtle tartness that enhances richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Provides a fresh, colorful finish that complements the soup’s warmth.
How to Make Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Soup Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Black Eyed Peas
Begin by rinsing your peas and picking out any that look damaged or unusually dark—this ensures a smooth, clean flavor. Place them in a pot with broth, bring to a gentle boil, then cover and let them soak for an hour without lifting the lid or draining the liquid. This soaking step softens the peas and starts the flavor infusion early on, setting the stage for creamy texture later.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cut your bacon into quarter-inch slices and cook it over medium heat until it crisps up nicely. This process not only creates irresistible crispy bits to garnish your soup, but the rendered bacon fat left behind serves as the flavorful cooking medium for your next ingredients. It’s like adding little smoky nuggets of happiness to your dish.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the bacon fat, gently cook the diced onions until they’re translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds—long enough to release its wonderful aroma but not so long that it burns. This combination builds the soulful foundation of your soup’s flavor profile.
Step 4: Add Herbs, Spices, and Liquid
Slowly pour in water while scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and lift up all those tasty browned bits from the bacon and onions. Toss in your Bouquet Garni, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, sugar, salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Let this simmer gently for 10 minutes to marry the flavors, then take the pot off the heat until the peas are ready.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer to Perfection
Once your peas have softened after the initial soak, add them and their broth to the aromatic onion mixture. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Stir every 20 minutes to keep things from sticking and to integrate the flavors evenly. Let this cook until the peas are tender and the soup is thick and creamy—about 1 to 1½ hours. Don’t forget to save a few tablespoons of crispy bacon for topping!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your steaming, creamy black-eyed peas and bacon soup into bowls, scatter the reserved crispy bacon on top along with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The first spoonful is always pure joy, with luxurious creaminess and a satisfying smoky crunch from the bacon.
How to Serve Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the perfect finishing touch, adding a burst of vibrant green and subtle herbal brightness. Crumbled crispy bacon on top delivers a delightful texture contrast and enhances the smoky richness. For an extra indulgent twist, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar can elevate the soup even further.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic bread—think crusty baguette or homemade cornbread—to soak up every last bit. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness nicely. If you want something more substantial, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables provide cozy comfort complements.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in oversized mugs or rustic bowls for a homestyle feel. Try layering crunchy croutons or toasted nuts on top for added texture. You can also present it with a drizzle of smoky chipotle oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to artfully boost the depth of flavor and visual appeal—perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup tastes even better the next day because all the flavors have had more time to marry. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve freshness and texture.
Freezing
Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge for easy, ready-made comfort food when you’re short on time.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain that luscious creamy texture. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving directly without stirring, as it can heat unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Canned black-eyed peas can be used in a pinch, but the texture and flavor won’t be quite the same. Dried peas create that rich, creamy texture that defines this soup. If using canned, rinse well and reduce the cooking time since they are already tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! Swap bacon for smoked paprika or liquid smoke to impart a similar depth without meat, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can sauté onions and garlic in olive oil or vegan butter for a lovely base.
How spicy is the soup with the hot sauce?
The hot sauce adds just a gentle kick that brightens up the flavors without overwhelming. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit it altogether if you prefer it mild.
What if I don’t have Bouquet Garni herb seasoning?
Not to worry! You can make a simple substitute with a small bundle of fresh thyme, parsley stems, and a bay leaf tied together or simply use dried thyme and bay leaf instead. It’s all about layering herbal notes to enhance the soup.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, but the soaking and initial cooking steps need some adjustments. You can soak the peas overnight, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally. Add bacon near the end to retain its crispiness.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Soup Recipe that makes it a standout in any meal rotation. The combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity means it’s destined to become a beloved classic in your kitchen too. I encourage you to give it a try, savor every spoonful, and maybe even share a bowl with friends or family who appreciate good, honest food from the heart.
Print
Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Black Eyed Peas recipe features tender, flavorful peas simmered slowly with crispy bacon, aromatic herbs, and a blend of seasonings. Perfect as a comforting meal for a crowd, it combines smoky bacon and fresh parsley garnish for a hearty Southern-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Meat
- ½ lb. bacon, cut into ¼-inch slices
Legumes
- 1 lb. dried black-eyed peas
Liquids & Broth
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 tsp Bouquet Garni herb seasoning
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- ½–1 tsp Tobasco or other hot sauce
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- 3 tbsp crispy bacon, reserved
Instructions
- Rinse and Soak Peas: Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly, discarding any damaged or discolored ones. Place them in a large pot with 4 cups of broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Boil for 2 minutes, then cover the pot and remove it from heat. Let the peas soak for 1 hour without removing the lid or draining the liquid.
- Cook Bacon: While peas soak, cut bacon into ¼-inch slices. In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the Dutch oven with the bacon fat and cook over medium heat until translucent. Reduce heat to low and add minced garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Deglaze and Add Seasonings: Gradually pour in the 2 cups of water, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and incorporate flavorful browned bits. Stir in Bouquet Garni, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Set heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes to meld flavors. Remove from heat until peas soften.
- Simmer Peas and Combine: After about 1 hour of soaking, when peas have softened, add the peas and their soaking broth into the Dutch oven with the onion mixture. Stir well and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Add all but 3 tablespoons of the reserved crisp bacon. Cover the pot and simmer gently for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring every 20 minutes, until peas are tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the black-eyed pea dish into bowls. Sprinkle with the remaining crispy bacon and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- Soaking peas after boiling helps reduce cooking time and improves texture.
- Use either chicken or vegetable broth depending on dietary preference.
- Adjust hot sauce according to your desired spice level.
- Stirring regularly helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- This dish can be made in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop.
