Black Bean Soup
Black Bean Soup is a rich and hearty comfort food that combines velvety texture with bold seasoning. Easy to make with simple pantry staples, it delivers a nutritious, fiber-packed, and protein-rich meal perfect for any season or occasion. This adaptable recipe suits both novice cooks and seasoned foodies, offering warmth and soul-soothing goodness in every bowl.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups black beans (canned, drained and rinsed, or dried and soaked overnight)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (or vegan substitute)
- Sliced avocado
- Shredded cheese
- Crunchy tortilla strips
Optional Variations
- Jalapeño or chipotle peppers for spice
- Cooked quinoa or brown rice for protein boost
- Shredded chicken (if not vegetarian/vegan)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes, to release their sweet and savory flavors.
- Step 2: Add Spices and Tomatoes – Sprinkle in ground cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir for about a minute to lightly toast the spices. Then add diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Step 3: Incorporate Beans and Broth – Add black beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to deepen and combine.
- Step 4: Blend to Desired Texture – For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender or transfer part of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot. Leave some beans whole for texture and bite.
- Step 5: Finish with Lime and Seasoning – Stir in fresh lime juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste. This brightens the soup and balances its rich flavors before serving.
Notes
- Soak dried black beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth to better control the salt level in your soup.
- Don’t overblend: keeping some beans whole adds texture and heartiness.
- Allow soup to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve freshness and texture.
- Add lime juice just before serving to maintain its fresh, tangy flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: black bean soup, hearty soup, vegetarian soup, vegan soup, gluten free, comfort food, easy soup recipe, healthy soup