Black-eyed peas weren’t part of my childhood, not even on New Year’s Day. In my thirties I made black-eyed pea stew with ham hocks — it was a favorite, but that was it. Then, when I taught world cooking, black-eyed peas popped up in recipes from Africa to Greece. My world opened. Black-eyed peas, bringers of good fortune, symbolize what happens when I allow something new in, and integrate an ingredient into my life.

This recipe is a delightful, bright, creamy soup that’ll quickly become a family favorite.  

Use Local WA leeks featured this week to make this hearty vegetarian soup. It tastes even better when garnished with crispy fried leeks, or chopped bacon or ham! Serve in small bowls with multigrain crackers for a warming and welcoming appetizer course.