Puerto Rican Vegan Spinach and Gungo Pea Soup: A Flavorful and Nourishing Delight

As the seasons change and the days grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to brighten up your evening. Today, we’re going to give a traditional spinach and gungo pea soup a vibrant Puerto Rican vegan twist, infusing it with the rich flavors and cultural significance of the island.

The Cultural Significance of Puerto Rican Cuisine

Puerto Rican cuisine is a beautiful blend of Taíno, Spanish, and African influences, reflecting the island’s diverse history. At the heart of this cuisine are three essential spice blends: Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito. These blends are more than just seasonings; they are the backbone of traditional Puerto Rican cooking, each with its own unique history and use.

• Sofrito: This aromatic base is made from a mixture of fresh herbs and vegetables, including culantro, cilantro, ají dulce peppers, onions, garlic, and sometimes tomatoes. It forms the foundation of many dishes, adding a depth of flavor that’s hard to match.
• Adobo: A versatile dry rub, Adobo is perfect for enhancing the flavor of proteins and vegetables. It’s a simple yet powerful blend of garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
• Sazón: With its vibrant annatto color and earthy flavor, Sazón adds a golden-red hue and depth to dishes like rice, stews, and soups.

Recipe: Puerto Rican Vegan Spinach and Gungo Pea Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup Sofrito (see below for homemade Sofrito recipe)
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound spinach, fresh or frozen
• 1 cup gungo peas (pigeon peas), canned or cooked from scratch
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Sazón
• 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Adobo
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 medium potatoes, diced (optional)
• 1-2 carrots, sliced (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or culantro for garnish

Homemade Sofrito Recipe

• 1 bunch culantro (recao leaves)
• 1 bunch cilantro
• 6-8 ají dulce peppers (substitute with cubanelle or bell peppers)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 head garlic, peeled
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2-3 ripe tomatoes or 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (optional)

Roughly chop all ingredients and blend in a food processor until smooth. Freeze in ice cube trays for long-term use.

Instructions

1. Preheat and Sauté: Heat the olive oil in a large caldero or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped green bell pepper and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
2. Add Sofrito: Add the homemade Sofrito and cook for about 6 minutes, stirring often, until it is fragrant and slightly caramelized.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, Sazón, and Adobo. Cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add Broth and Peas: Pour in the vegetable broth and water, then add the gungo peas. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Add Spinach and Vegetables: If using, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Finally, add the fresh or frozen spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or culantro.

Tips and Variations

• For a Heartier Soup: Add some cubed tofu, tempeh, or TVP (textured vegetable protein), which is easily available and very affordable in Puerto Rico. TVP can be marinated in a mixture of Adobo and Sazón for added flavor.
• Balance the Flavors: A splash of apple cider vinegar can balance the flavors and add a hint of tanginess to this savory soup.
• Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like sweet potatoes, yams, or callaloo to increase the nutritional density of the soup.

Enjoying the Soup

This Puerto Rican Vegan Spinach and Gungo Pea Soup is a perfect comfort food for cool days. The combination of Sofrito, Sazón, and Adobo gives it a rich and authentic flavor that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico. Serve it with a side of warm bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

As you take your first spoonful, remember the cultural heritage and love that goes into every Puerto Rican dish. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, traditions, and the warm hospitality of the island. ¡Buen provecho

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