Alphabet Soup for Grownups

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 450°F. 

Toss the tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, and onion on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with 1 tsp. of the salt, the pepper, and red pepper flakes. Roast until the tomatoes have collapsed and are starting to brown on the edges and the bell peppers are tender, about 45 minutes.

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the lady cream peas (if using canned beans, no need to cook the beans): In a large pot, combine them with enough water to cover by 3 inches. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low, add the remaining ½ tsp. salt, and simmer, covered, until tender, 30 to 45 minutes. Drain, reserving the bean liquid. Measure out 2 cups of the bean cooking liquid and save any remaining for another use.

When the vegetables have finished roasting, transfer the contents of the baking sheet to the empty soup pot and set it over medium-high heat. Stir in the bean cooking liquid and 1 cup water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to medium-low and simmer until the flavors meld, about 10 minutes. 

Add the basil and use an immersion (handheld) blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the lady cream peas and continue cooking over medium-low until the peas are warmed through, about 5 minutes. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed, along with a splash of vinegar and/or a pinch of sugar, if desired. Serve hot.