Indulge in the rich, hearty flavors of Black Bean Soup, a timeless dish that warms both the body and soul. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrition! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Black Bean Soup will surely delight. Ready in under an hour, it combines pantry staples with fresh ingredients for a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of this Black Bean Soup contains approximately:
– Calories: 200
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 34g
– Fiber: 10g
– Fat: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, and chili powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy your delicious black bean soup with your favorite side!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute canned black beans with dried beans. Just soak them overnight and cook until tender. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn or zucchini, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This Black Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with avocado slices or tortilla chips for added texture.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the canned beans can lead to excess saltiness.
- Overcooking the soup can make it too thick.
- Ignoring the seasoning will result in bland flavor.
- Using high heat can burn the garlic and onions.
- Not blending enough will leave a chunky texture if desired smoothness is preferred.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
- Add a splash of lime juice before serving for brightness.
- Top with sour cream or yogurt for creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off approach.
Is this soup vegan?
Absolutely! This Black Bean Soup is made entirely with plant-based ingredients, making it a great vegan option.
What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
You can use chicken broth or water with added seasonings if you prefer a different base.
How spicy is this soup?
The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder and including jalapeños for heat.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier version of the soup.
Conclusion
Black Bean Soup is a wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for any meal, it offers a delightful combination of spices and textures. Enjoy it as a comforting meal or as a starter for any occasion!
Black Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, and chili powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy your delicious black bean soup!
