When the weather gets chilly or you need a wholesome, hearty meal, Instant Pot Black-Eyed Pea Soup is the perfect solution. Packed with tender black-eyed peas, vibrant vegetables, and smoky seasonings, this dish is both nourishing and incredibly satisfying. It’s a great way to celebrate Southern traditions or simply enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness.

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Black-Eyed Pea Soup

This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile and simple to make. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Quick and Convenient: The Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time.
• Nutritious and Filling: Full of fiber, protein, and vitamins from the peas and veggies.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Black-Eyed Pea Soup

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Onion (diced)	1 medium
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Carrots (diced)	2 medium
Celery (diced)	2 stalks
Bell pepper (diced)	1
Smoked paprika	1 tsp
Dried thyme	1 tsp
Cayenne pepper (optional)	1/2 tsp
Chicken or vegetable broth	4 cups
Black-eyed peas (drained)	2 cans (15 oz each)
Diced tomatoes (with juice)	1 can (14.5 oz)
Smoked sausage (sliced, optional)	1 cup cooked
Spinach or kale (optional)	2 cups
Salt and pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tbsp (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” setting.
2. Add the olive oil and let it heat for about a minute.
3. Stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

2. Add the Seasonings and Base

1. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and black-eyed peas. Stir to combine.

3. Pressure Cook the Soup

1. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
2. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
3. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.

4. Add the Smoked Sausage (Optional)

1. If you’re using smoked sausage, stir it into the soup after pressure cooking.
2. Use the “Sauté” setting to simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to heat through and infuse its smoky flavor into the soup.

5. Add the Greens (Optional)

1. Stir in the spinach or kale just before serving.
2. Allow the greens to wilt for 2–3 minutes.

6. Season and Serve

1. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Instant Pot Black-Eyed Pea Soup

• Rinse the Black-Eyed Peas: Canned peas should be rinsed to remove excess sodium and enhance their flavor.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
• Layer Flavors: Adding smoked sausage deepens the smoky notes and makes the soup heartier.
• Use Fresh Greens: Spinach and kale are nutrient-packed additions that elevate the soup’s texture and nutrition.

Creative Variations

1. Vegetarian Delight

• Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth for a completely vegetarian version.

2. Add Sweet Potatoes

• Dice a medium sweet potato and add it with the other vegetables for a hint of sweetness.

3. Southwest Twist

• Replace smoked paprika with chili powder and add black beans or corn for a southwestern flair.

4. Creamy Style

• Blend a portion of the soup for a creamy texture while keeping some veggies and peas intact.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	~200
Protein	~8g
Fat	~5g
Carbohydrates	~30g
Fiber	~6g

Serving Suggestions

1. With Bread: Serve with crusty French bread or buttery cornbread to soak up the broth.
2. As a Main Dish: Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
3. For Potlucks: This soup is an excellent choice for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried black-eyed peas?

Yes, soak dried peas overnight and increase the pressure cooking time to 20 minutes.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

4. Can I skip the sausage?

Yes, the soup is flavorful even without sausage. You can add extra smoked paprika for more smokiness.

5. Can I substitute the greens?

Feel free to use Swiss chard, collard greens, or arugula in place of spinach or kale.

6. Is this soup spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds a mild heat, but you can omit it for a milder version.

Bring Comfort to Your Table

Instant Pot Black-Eyed Pea Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a bowl of comfort and joy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful way to celebrate New Year’s traditions, this soup delivers every time. With its rich, smoky broth and hearty ingredients, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients, set your Instant Pot, and enjoy a soul-warming bowl today!

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