Description
This hearty and flavorful Mexican-style black bean soup is perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with protein, spices, and fresh toppings, it’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish with tortilla chips or warm cornbread.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Soup Base:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Beans and Broth:
- 4 cups cooked black beans (or 2 cans, 15 oz each, drained and rinsed)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegan option)
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (or fire-roasted tomatoes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional, for added tang)
- Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream or vegan yogurt
- Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
- Tortilla strips or chips
- Sliced jalapeรฑos
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:ย Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sautรฉ for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, and carrots, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add the Spices:ย Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, coriander, oregano, and the bay leaf. Stir well to coat the vegetables and toast the spices for about 1 minute.
- Combine Ingredients:ย Add the black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
- Simmer the Soup:ย Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Blend for Texture:ย Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy yet chunky texture. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Finish and Serve:ย Stir in lime juice, if desired, and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce during cooking.
- This soup freezes well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.