Black-eyed peas have a mild flavor and go well with greens. They do not need to be soaked, but black-eyed peas will cook faster if you do soak them. This soup is full of vegetables, making it flavorful and filling. Black-eyed peas are the principal component of hoppin’ John, which is served in the South on New Year’s Day to bring luck for the new year. We like to think that this soup nourishes us, bringing us luck throughout the year.