Southern Swamp Soup – A Flavorful and Hearty Southern Soup Recipe
Swamp Soup combines Southern culinary traditions in a hearty dish of collard greens, beans, sausage, and vegetables in a savory broth. This recipe delivers a flavorful balance of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy, making it ideal for cozy dinners or potlucks.
Southern Swamp Soup Recipe | Best Swamp Soup with Greens, Beans & Sausage
DifficultyMedium
Servings6
Prep time15 minutes
Cook time40 minutes
Total time55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage (Andouille, kielbasa, or chorizo), sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 15 oz can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chopped collard greens (or kale, mustard greens, or Swiss chard)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt to taste
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Hot sauce for extra heat
- Cornbread on the side
Let's Get Cooking!
Instructions:
- 1
Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- 2
Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and thyme. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Build the Broth
- Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan.
- Stir in black-eyed peas, great northern beans, and cooked sausage.
- 4
Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let cook for 15 minutes.
- Stir in collard greens and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes until the greens are tender.
- 5
Finish with Vinegar & Seasoning
- Stir in apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding salt if needed.
- 6
Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and hot sauce.
- Serve with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread.
Equipment
Recipe Notes and Variations
Nutrition
Calories | 365 |
Carbohydrates | 35g |
Cholesterol | 45mg |
Fat | 18g |
Fiber | 8g |
Protein | 22g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Sodium | 780mg |
Sugar | 5g |
Unsaturated Fat | 10g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration Behind Swamp Soup
Where Did Swamp Soup Originate?
The origins of Swamp Soup can be traced back to the Southern United States, where rural communities and home cooks relied on nutrient-rich greens, beans, and smoked meats to create affordable yet delicious meals.
Many Southern soups, such as gumbo, collard greens stew, and Cajun soups, share similarities with Swamp Soup. This dish likely evolved from a combination of Louisiana Creole, Cajun, and deep South home cooking traditions.
While some swamp soup recipes include seafood, rice, or even alligator meat, this version sticks to the classic Southern-style swamp stew recipe, which is flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for any season.
The Art of Cooking the Best Swamp Soup
✔ Choosing the Right Greens for Swamp Soup
- Collard greens are the most traditional choice, but you can use turnip greens, mustard greens, or kale.
- If you want a softer texture, use baby spinach or Swiss chard.
✔ The Secret to a Flavorful Broth
- Using smoked sausage and a mix of spices gives the broth a deep, smoky richness.
- Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end balances out the flavors.
✔ Making It Thick Like Swamp Stew
- For a heartier consistency, you can add diced potatoes, corn, or okra.
- Some Southern cooks like to add cooked rice or barley to thicken the soup.
✔ The Best Sausage for Swamp Soup
- Andouille sausage is great for a Cajun twist.
- Smoked kielbasa or chorizo works well for a bolder, spicier flavor.
Why This Swamp Soup Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
✔ A Cozy Comfort Meal: Perfect for cold nights, fall and winter meals, and rainy days.
✔ Great for Meal Prep: The flavors get better over time, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
✔ Ideal for Potlucks and Gatherings: It’s easy to make in large batches and serves a crowd.
✔ Nutritious & Satisfying: Packed with greens, beans, and protein, this soup is wholesome and filling.