As the calendar flips to a new year, there’s a delicious tradition that many embrace—cooking up a pot of New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas for good luck! The rich, savory scent of simmering black-eyed peas and smoked pork neck bones fills the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm hug. When I first tried making this soup, I was surprised by how these humble ingredients transformed into a dish bursting with comforting flavor.

One evening, after a long day, I craved something hearty that wouldn’t rob me of my precious time. That’s when I stumbled across the magic of black-eyed pea soup. With a few simple steps, you can create a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for gathering friends and family around the table. This versatile soup pairs beautifully with cornbread and a splash of hot sauce to elevate your experience. If you’re looking to elevate your New Year’s celebration or simply want a cozy soup recipe that brings everyone together, let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why are New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas special?

Tradition: Many believe that eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day brings prosperity and luck for the year ahead.
Comforting Flavors: The combination of smoky pork, spices, and creamy black-eyed peas creates a irresistible flavor profile that warms the soul.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this soup can be whipped up without fuss, making it perfect for both cooks and busy families.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. For an extra delightful pair, serve it alongside cornbread dipped into the broth for the ultimate comfort experience.

New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas Ingredients

• The perfect blend for luck and flavor!

For the Soup

1 lb. dry black-eyed peas – These peas are the star of the dish, known for their rich flavor and texture.
1 tsp. baking soda – A little baking soda helps to soften the peas during soaking, ensuring they cook evenly.
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided – Use high-quality olive oil for a delightful depth of flavor in the soup.

1 large onion, diced – Aromatic and sweet once cooked, onions add a tasty foundation to your soup.
6 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and a hint of warmth to the dish.
2 stalks celery, diced – Celery enhances the soup’s freshness and adds a little crunch.

2 serrano peppers, sliced (optional) – If you like a kick, these peppers will spice things up!
1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced – Adds flavor and subtle heat without overwhelming the dish.
1 tsp. kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your New Year’s black-eyed peas.

1 tsp. smoked paprika – This adds a warm, smoky flavor, perfect for the comfort of a hearty soup.
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper – Freshly ground pepper elevates the soup’s seasoning beautifully.
1/2 tsp. ground cayenne – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne is a great addition.

1/2 tsp. ground white pepper – White pepper’s flavor is milder and adds an unexpected depth.
1/2 tsp. ground cumin – Cumin brings an earthy, warm flavor that enhances the soup’s overall profile.
1 lb. smoked pork neck bones – These bones infuse the soup with rich, meaty flavor that completes the dish.

6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water – Chicken broth adds depth and richness; water can be used for a lighter soup.

For Serving

Cooked greens or cabbage – Serve these nutritious veggies to brighten up your bowl.
Cornbread – Perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth, cornbread is a must-have!

Hot sauce – A splash of hot sauce adds the perfect finishing touch for those who love heat.

How to Make New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas

Soak the Peas: In a large bowl, combine dry black-eyed peas and baking soda, covering them with water by at least 4 inches. Cover and soak for 6 hours or overnight. Rinse and drain thoroughly afterward.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add diced onion, minced garlic, diced celery, sliced serrano peppers (if using), minced jalapeño, and kosher salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are lightly golden, about 10 minutes.
Add Spices and Pork: Push the sautéed vegetables to the edges of the pot and create a well in the center. Pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil, then add the spices: smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne, white pepper, and cumin. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the pork neck bones, soaked peas, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer before reducing the heat to medium-low.
Simmer to Perfection: Cover the pot partially with a lid and let it simmer until the peas are tender, which will take about 35 minutes. To thicken the broth, remove the lid and cook for an additional 10 to 20 minutes until the liquid reaches the desired consistency.

Serve with Care: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve with cooked greens or cabbage, cornbread, and a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a little extra heat!

Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas?

Elevate your cozy soup experience with hearty sides and refreshing touches that complete your meal.

Cornbread: The perfect partner for soaking up the rich broth, cornbread adds a delightful sweetness and comforting texture.

Cooked Greens: Spinach or collard greens lend a vibrant color and freshness, balancing the hearty nature of the soup. They add nutrition and a satisfying crunch.
Hot Sauce: Enhance each spoonful with your favorite hot sauce, bringing a zesty kick that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the black-eyed peas.
Pickled Jalapeños: If you’re looking for a tangy twist, pickled jalapeños add a deliciously spicy and sour note that brightens the dish.

Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes offer a sweet, tender contrast to the smoky flavors of the soup, bringing in a comforting, robust flavor that harmonizes wonderfully.
Creamy Polenta: A side of creamy polenta provides a smooth, rich base that marries perfectly with the texture of the black-eyed peas.
Crispy Bacon: For those who love an extra crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top of each bowl for a savory touch.

Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing accompaniment that cleanses the palate amid the hearty flavors.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: The refreshing taste of iced tea or lemonade is the perfect drink to serve, adding a cool element to your warm meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, serve warm chocolate chip cookies alongside your soup for a delightful contrast that wraps up the meal on a high note.

How to Store and Freeze New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas

Fridge: Store leftover New Year’s black-eyed peas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Expert Tips for New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas

Soaking Matters: Always soak the black-eyed peas with baking soda to ensure they cook evenly and reduce cooking time.
Flavor Building: Sauté veggies until lightly golden; this step intensifies flavors, making your soup a mouthwatering delight.
Spice Timing: Add your spices after creating a well in the pan. This helps release their essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor of your New Year’s black-eyed peas.

Control the Heat: If you prefer a milder soup, feel free to skip the serrano and jalapeño peppers. Adjust the amount of cayenne for your desired spice level.
Consistency Check: Remember, simmering with the lid partially off will thicken your broth. Keep an eye on it to achieve your perfect soup texture!

New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this comforting soup to suit your tastes!

Vegetarian: Replace smoked pork neck bones with a variety of hearty vegetables, such as carrots and mushrooms, for a fulfilling flavor.

Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce while simmering to keep the heat level just right for spice lovers!
Creamy Addition: Stir in some coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the last 10 minutes of cooking for an aromatic boost that scents the kitchen with warmth.

Lentil Twist: Swap out half the black-eyed peas for green or brown lentils, adding a different texture while maintaining that earthy goodness.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Use smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to deepen the rich flavors, giving every spoonful an extra layer of comfort.
Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice before serving to brighten the dish and enhance all the savory elements with a refreshing note.

Nutty Topping: Top each serving with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch that elevates your bowl of soup to a delightful new level.

Make Ahead Options

These New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can soak the black-eyed peas and combine them with baking soda up to 24 hours in advance, which will help streamline your cooking process. Additionally, the sautéed vegetables and spices can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just heat them before adding the pork and broth for the final simmer. To maintain quality, store each component in airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine everything in the pot and simmer until deliciously warm—making serving effortless and stress-free!

New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best black-eyed peas?
Absolutely! When selecting dry black-eyed peas, look for ones that are uniform in color and free from dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh peas will be plump and have a smooth surface. If buying canned, check for low-sodium options to control the salt content in your soup.

How should I store leftover black-eyed pea soup?
Very easy! Store any leftover New Year’s black-eyed pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pour it into a saucepan over medium heat and add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Can I freeze black-eyed pea soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the New Year’s black-eyed pea soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove until warmed through.

What if my black-eyed peas are too hard after cooking?
No worries! If your peas seem too hard after the cooking time, they might not have soaked long enough. Simply add a little extra liquid to the pot and continue simmering, covered, for an additional 10-15 minutes until they soften. Additionally, make sure to give them ample time to soak at the beginning!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, consider that the smoked pork neck bones contain pork, so substitute with turkey necks or omit them for a vegetarian version. Also, for those with spicy food sensitivities, feel free to skip the serrano and jalapeño peppers to keep the flavor enjoyable for everyone.

Can I use dried spices instead of fresh ones?
Yes indeed! If you don’t have fresh spices on hand, dried spices work just fine. Use about a third of the amount of dried spices in substitution for fresh to avoid overpowering the dish. Enjoy the cooking adventure!