Vegan Boricua

Puerto Rican Vegan Tradition: Soul-Warming Spinach and Gungo Pea Soup with Island Flavors

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Puerto Rican Vegan Spinach and Gungo Pea Soup: A Flavorful Tribute to Island Cuisine

As the cooler months approach, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting bowl of soup to warm the soul. In this recipe, we’re giving a traditional spinach and gungo pea soup a vibrant Puerto Rican vegan twist, infused with the rich flavors and cultural significance of the island.

The Cultural Significance

Puerto Rican cuisine is a beautiful blend of indigenous Taíno, Spanish, and African influences. The use of sofrito, sazón, and adobo – the holy trinity of Puerto Rican flavors – adds a depth and authenticity that is unparalleled. In this soup, these elements come together to create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also honors the culinary heritage of Puerto Rico.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried gungo peas (pigeon peas), soaked overnight and drained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large sweet onion, diced
  • 3 stalks of celery, sliced
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup sofrito (see below for recipe)
  • 2 teaspoons sazón (see below for recipe)
  • 1 teaspoon adobo (see below for recipe)
  • 5 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (crushed or pureed for a smoother texture)
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Splash of apple cider vinegar (optional, for balancing flavors)

Sofrito, Sazón, and Adobo Recipes

Sofrito

  • 1 bunch culantro (recao) or cilantro
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • 6-8 ají dulce peppers or bell peppers
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 head garlic, peeled
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • Blend in a food processor until smooth. Freeze in ice cube trays for long-term use.

Sazón

  • 1 tablespoon ground annatto (achiote)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Combine all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container.

Adobo

  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Mix all ingredients thoroughly and store in a sealed container.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sofrito:

    • Sauté 2-3 tablespoons of sofrito in olive oil until fragrant.

  2. Cook the Vegetables:

    • Add the diced onion and sliced celery to the pot and sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

  3. Add the Gungo Peas and Broth:

    • Add the soaked and drained gungo peas, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, sweet potato (if using), sazón, and adobo to the pot.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.

  4. Add Spinach and Season:

    • Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup.
    • Season with salt, black pepper, and a splash of apple cider vinegar if desired to balance the flavors.

  5. Serve:

    • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a side of crusty bread or rice.

Tips and Variations

  • TVP or Beans: If you prefer a heartier soup, you can add textured vegetable protein (TVP) or additional beans like kidney or black beans.

    • TVP is easily available in Puerto Rico and is a very affordable option.

  • Meat Alternatives: For those looking for a protein boost, you can add cubed tofu or tempeh towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they stay tender.

  • Ground Provisions: Feel free to add other root vegetables like yams, cassava, or plantains to enhance the nutritional density and flavor of the soup.

Conclusion

This Puerto Rican Vegan Spinach and Gungo Pea Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of the island’s rich culinary heritage. With its aromatic sofrito base, the vibrant color and flavor of sazón, and the bold essence of adobo, this soup is a true reflection of Puerto Rican cuisine. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of the island’s signature flavors – perfect for any time of the year when you need a little warmth and comfort.

Enjoy your delicious and culturally rich Puerto Rican Vegan Spinach and Gungo Pea Soup

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