Black Bean Soup
A delightful and nutritious black bean soup that's easy to prepare, perfect for family dinners or cozy lunches.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil Adds a silky richness to the soup.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced Provides sweet and aromatic undertones.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced Offers a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Releases an irresistible fragrance.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Adds a deeper, tomato-forward flavor.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Lends a gentle kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Contributes herbal complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika For a subtle smokiness.
- 3 cans (15 oz) black beans (2 drained and rinsed, 1 undrained) Provides density and creaminess.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Supplies juicy bursts of freshness.
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth Offers a wholesome base.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Rounds out the flavors.
Final Touches
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice Adds zesty brightness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro Introduces a refreshing herbal note.
- 1 medium avocado, diced (optional) For a creamy topping.
- 1 cup crushed corn tortilla chips (optional) Adds delightful crunch.
- 1 wedge lime for serving Enhances taste and presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and red bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and smoked paprika, and stir for 1 minute.
Cooking
- Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer for 15-18 minutes.
- Blend about half of the soup using an immersion blender.
- Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with avocado, tortilla chips, and lime wedges.
Notes
For the best flavors, consider allowing the soup to rest for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator; this helps the flavors develop. Experiment with toppings like sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.