8-Step Swamp Soup Recipe
This Swamp Soup is a hearty combination of smoked sausage, tender greens, and creamy beans simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for beginners, it’s an easy, one-pot recipe ideal for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 Medium yellow onion diced
- 1 Medium green bell pepper diced
- 2 Cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound Smoked chicken or beef sausage Sliced into rounds
- 32 ounces Chicken broth 32 ounes = 4 cups
- 2 ounces Vegetable bouillon cubes
- 14.5 ounces Can seasoned turnip greens Or collard greens
- 14.5 ounces Can seasoned mixed greens
- 15 ounces Can Great Northern beans Drained and rinsed
- 15 ounces Can black-eyed peas Drained and rinsed
- 10 ounces Can diced tomatoes with green chilies Mild or spicy, per preference
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon Smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Collect and prepare all the necessary ingredients before you start cooking. Finely chop the onion and bell pepper, cut the sausage into uniform circular pieces, and finely crush the garlic. Advance planning will lead to a more efficient workflow.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a spacious, sturdy pot with a thick base, warm the olive oil over moderate heat. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper, occasionally tossing, for approximately 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes see-through and releases its aroma. Incorporate the finely chopped garlic and continue cooking for 60 to 120 seconds, taking care not to let it scorch.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow the sausage to cook until it develops a golden-brown color, infusing the soup's foundation with its rich flavors. This method enhances the overall depth and complexity of flavor.
- Deglaze and Add Broth: Pour the chicken stock into the pot, then use a spatula or wooden spoon to dislodge any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits add a rich, savory flavor to the soup.
- Add Canned Ingredients and Seasonings: Stir in the vegetable bouillon cubes, canned greens (including their liquid), beans (drained and rinsed), and diced tomatoes with chilies. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Combine all ingredients thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution of flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Elevate the temperature to initiate a mild bubbling of the soup. When it reaches this point, lower the heat, place a lid on the pot, and allow it to cook gently for 30 to 40 minutes. Mix the contents periodically to avoid any sticking and to help the flavors combine well.
- Final Taste Test: Sample the soup prior to serving and make any necessary adjustments to the seasoning. For those seeking a more intense flavor, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serve: Serve the steaming soup into individual bowls. If desired, sprinkle with freshly diced parsley as a finishing touch. Pair it with a side of cornbread, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Calories per serving: 567 calories per serving (approximately 1 bowl, 556 g)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Tags: Gluten-Free (if using certified gluten-free sausage and broth)
- Nutritional Info per serving: 26g fat, 9g sat fat, 56g carbs, 10g fiber, 29g protein, 1250mg sodium
