Vegan black eyed pea soup is a hearty, flavorful, and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe will guide you through creating a creamy and delicious soup that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe
This vegan black eyed pea soup is:
- Packed with flavor: A symphony of aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Creamy and comforting: The combination of blended black eyed peas and coconut milk creates a luxuriously creamy texture that’s both comforting and satisfying.
- Nutritious and satisfying: This soup is a powerhouse of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy and fulfilling meal.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Bowl of creamy vegan black eyed pea soup
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black eyed peas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Let’s Make Some Soup!
- 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.
- Add the aromatics: Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme, and oregano and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer for flavor: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and black eyed peas. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
- Blend for creaminess: Using an immersion blender or carefully transferring the soup to a blender, blend until smooth and creamy.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for a few minutes.
- Garnish and enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Ingredients for making vegan black eyed pea soup
Tips for the Best Vegan Black Eyed Pea Soup
- For a richer flavor: Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier taste.
- Adjust the spiciness: Add more or less cayenne pepper to your preference.
- Make it thicker: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the black-eyed peas before blending.
- Enhance the creaminess: For extra richness, use full-fat coconut milk.
- Garnish creatively: Get creative with your garnishes! Try adding a dollop of vegan sour cream, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
“Using smoked paprika in this soup adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. It’s a pantry staple that elevates any vegan dish.” – Chef Anya Green
Flavor Variations
- Mediterranean Black Eyed Pea Soup: Add a Mediterranean twist by stirring in a tablespoon of lemon juice and a handful of chopped fresh dill and parsley before serving.
- Spicy Black Eyed Pea Soup: Turn up the heat by adding a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onions and carrots.
- Curried Black Eyed Pea Soup: Add 1 tablespoon of curry powder and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin along with the other spices.
Vegan black eyed pea soup ready to serve
FAQs About Vegan Black Eyed Pea Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze black eyed pea soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
What can I serve with vegan black eyed pea soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a satisfying meal.
Can I use dried black eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use 1 cup of dried black eyed peas. Soak them overnight in water, then drain and rinse before using them in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?
While coconut milk adds a lovely creaminess, you can substitute it with another plant-based milk like almond milk, soy milk, or cashew milk.
“Remember, cooking is all about experimentation! Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.” – Chef Anya Green
A Hearty and Flavorful Vegan Meal
This vegan black eyed pea soup is more than just a simple soup; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and nourishing ingredients. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your plant-based cooking repertoire.
