Black-Eyed Pea and Ham Hock Soup

Name: Black-Eyed Pea and Ham Hock Soup
Yield: serves 6
Ingredients: 2 cups dried black-eyed peas, washed and picked over for stones; 4 to 6 cups chicken stock (page 227) or low-fat, reduced-sodium chicken broth, plus more if necessary; 2 smoked ham hocks; 1 tablespoon canola oil; 1 onion, preferably Vidalia, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 bunch collards, tough stems removed and discarded, leaves very thinly sliced in chiffonade (see page 197); Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper

By Virginia Willis

December 9, 2011

Image may contain Cutlery Fork Home Decor Bowl and Pottery

Photo by Chelsea Kyle

In the summer, we’d sit on the porch shelling the black-eyed peas that Dede had picked that morning. The purple hulls dyed our fingers smoky violet. I’ve used frozen black-eyed peas to prepare this soup, but don’t use canned, as they are too soft. If using frozen peas, reduce the cooking time according to the package instructions or until the peas are tender. Note that the dried peas must soak overnight or have a quick soak. Don’t skip the essential step of simmering the ham hocks in the chicken stock. The flavor and aroma are what makes this soup extraordinary.

Recipe notes

29 Ricotta Recipes for Dinner, Dessert, and More

Put that half-full tub to use with recipes that go beyond the Italian American classics.

The Most-Saved Recipes in the Epicurious App This Week

Like seared scallop piccata and chocolate Guinness cake.

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

The Only Frittata Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Vegan Chili

This vegan chili skips the meat but keeps all of the smoky-savory flavors that make it so comforting: cocoa powder, beans, and all of the toppings.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.