Authentic Black Bean Soup
Hearty and flavorful black bean soup with spices, vegetables, and a touch of lime.
15 mins
Prep Time
45 mins
Cook Time
4
Servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried black beans (or 4 cups canned black beans, drained)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or avocado (optional, for serving)
Nutrition Facts
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Instructions
If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight in water. Drain before cooking. (Skip if using canned beans.)
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the soaked (or canned) black beans, broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes (or 15-20 minutes if using canned beans).
Remove bay leaves. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some beans whole for texture. Alternatively, transfer 2 cups to a blender, blend, then return to the pot.
Season with salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices if desired.
Chef's Tips
- Soaking Beans: Soaking dried beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- Spice Level: Adjust jalapeño amount or omit for a milder soup.
- Texture: For a thicker soup, blend more of the beans. For chunkier, blend less.
- Storage: Soup tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze leftovers in portions for quick meals later.
- Toppings: Try adding shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or tortilla strips for extra flavor.
