Black Bean Soup Recipe
Black bean soup has roots in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines, where black beans, also known as frijoles negros, are a dietary staple. The soup became popular for its nutritious qualities and versatility, often flavored with spices, citrus, and vegetables. Over the years, it has been adapted into countless variations, from creamy blended soups to chunky stews with additional toppings. Its ability to pair well with rice, bread, or tortilla chips makes it a beloved dish worldwide.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Blender or immersion blender
- Ladle
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream or dairy-free yogurt (optional)
- Crushed tortilla chips or croutons
Instructions
- Prepare the BaseHeat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add SpicesStir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the spices coat the vegetables evenly.
- Combine Beans and BrothAdd the black beans, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Blend for TextureRemove the bay leaf. For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half the mixture by transferring it to a blender and returning it to the pot.
- Season and ServeTaste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and optional toppings like sour cream or crushed tortilla chips.