How do I cook black eyed pea soup in an Instant Pot?

To cook black eyed pea soup in an Instant Pot, start by using the sauté function to cook onions, garlic, and any smoked meat like ham until browned. Add rinsed black eyed peas, broth, and seasonings, then seal the lid and cook on the “Bean/Chili” or manual high-pressure setting for about 20-25 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for best texture. Finally, stir in greens such as kale or collards and cook on sauté for an additional 5 minutes until tender. This method significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional stovetop simmering.

Should I soak black eyed peas before cooking Instant Pot soup?

Soaking black eyed peas before cooking is optional but recommended for better digestion and texture. Soaking for at least 4 hours or overnight helps reduce indigestible sugars that can cause discomfort and prevents the skins from splitting during cooking. If you skip soaking, increase the Instant Pot cook time to about 30-35 minutes and expect a slightly softer texture. Using salted water for soaking can also enhance the peas’ flavor.

Can I make Instant Pot black eyed pea soup vegan or vegetarian?

Yes, making a vegan or vegetarian version is simple. Replace any ham or smoked meat with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for depth of flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef stock. Load the soup with plenty of vegetables like onions, carrots, and greens to keep it hearty and nutritious. Cooking times remain the same, and you still get a rich, flavorful soup without animal products.

Why are black eyed peas traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day?

Black eyed peas are eaten on New Year’s Day as a symbol of luck and prosperity, a tradition that dates back over 1,500 years. Originating from African and Jewish customs, the peas represent coins or good fortune, and greens like collards symbolize wealth. This practice became widespread in the southern United States after the Civil War, signifying hope, renewal, and financial success for the coming year.

How can I adjust Instant Pot black eyed pea soup for different tastes or diets?

You can customize black eyed pea soup by adjusting seasonings and ingredients. For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. For a lower-sodium dish, use low-sodium broth and limit added salt. To make it heartier, add potatoes or sausage slices. Those seeking higher protein can stir in cooked chicken or beans after pressure cooking. The Instant Pot’s flexibility allows you to tailor the recipe to fit dietary needs and flavor preferences easily.

Instant Pot Black Eyed Pea Soup Recipe For Quick Meals

Name: Instant Pot Black Eyed Pea Soup
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: – 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; – 1 diced onion; – 1 diced rib of celery; – 2 diced carrots; – 1 finely chopped garlic clove; – 1.5 cups cubed ham or leftover ham bone/hock; – 1 pound dried black eyed peas (soaked overnight in salted water, rinsed, and drained); – 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; – 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; – 1 bay leaf; – 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (approximately 2 sprigs); – 15 ounces canned diced fire-roasted tomatoes; – 2 cups packed kale or collard greens; – Salt and black pepper to taste

Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

– 1 diced onion

– 1 diced rib of celery

– 2 diced carrots

– 1 finely chopped garlic clove

– 1.5 cups cubed ham or leftover ham bone/hock

– 1 pound dried black eyed peas (soaked overnight in salted water, rinsed, and drained)

– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

– 1 bay leaf

– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (approximately 2 sprigs)

– 15 ounces canned diced fire-roasted tomatoes

– 2 cups packed kale or collard greens

– Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1-First: sauté the onion, celery, and carrots in 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil for 2-3 minutes until they soften.

2-Then, add the garlic and ham, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to build that savory base.

3-Next, stir in the soaked black eyed peas, broth, smoked paprika, bay leaf, and thyme, making sure everything mixes well.

4-Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it release naturally for 20 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.

5-After that, remove any ham bone if used, chop the meat, and put it back in the pot.

6-Finally, mix in the kale and diced tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let the residual heat wilt the greens or give them a quick sauté.

Notes

🌿 Soak black eyed peas overnight to improve flavor and digestion.
🍅 Use fire-roasted tomatoes to add a smoky depth to the soup.
🥬 Substitute ham with vegetable stock and extra smoked paprika for a vegetarian or vegan option.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Pressure Cooking, Sautéing
Cuisine: Southern, American
Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 316 kcal
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 1070 mg
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fiber: 8 g
Protein: 21 g
Cholesterol: 16 mg