Black bean soup is a delicious, hearty dish made with tender black beans, vegetables, and savory seasonings. It’s a healthy and nutritious meal, perfect for any time of day. The beans are cooked to perfection, blending harmoniously with onions, garlic, and spices to create a rich flavor.

This recipe is simple to prepare and packed with protein and fiber. You can enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, and it’s great for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a healthy option, black bean soup is a great choice.

Why You’ll Love This Black Bean Soup Recipe

1. Healthy and Nutritious
2. This black bean soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. It’s heart-healthy and helps keep you full for longer.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
4. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this soup in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a fast, satisfying meal.
5. Versatile and Customizable
6. Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Whether you prefer spicy or mild flavors, this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your taste.
7. Budget-Friendly
8. Black beans are inexpensive and readily available, making this soup a budget-friendly option. It’s a great way to feed your family without breaking the bank.

Ingredient Notes for a Black Bean Soup Recipe

• Black Beans: The heart of the soup, black beans add a hearty texture and are packed with protein and fiber.
• Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base, adding depth to the soup’s flavour.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives the soup a rich, aromatic taste.
• Ground Cumin: This warm spice adds earthiness and a subtle smokiness to the soup.
• Chili Powder: Adds a mild heat, balancing the flavours with a slight kick.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky flavour, elevating the soup’s richness.
• Vegetable Broth: Acts as the liquid base, infusing the soup with a savoury taste.
• Olive Oil: Adds a smooth texture and richness when sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, they help bring out the natural flavours in the soup.
• Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice at the end adds a refreshing tang to brighten the dish.
• Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal finish, giving the soup a burst of flavour and color.

Pre-preparation of Black Bean Soup Recipe

Before we start cooking, it’s good to get everything ready. This will save time during the actual cooking process.

• Soak your beans: If you’re using dry black beans, soak them overnight to reduce cooking time. If you’re using canned black beans, make sure to drain and rinse them before use.
• Prep your vegetables: Dice the onions, peppers, and garlic. This step ensures that your vegetables cook evenly and quickly.
• Gather all your ingredients: Having everything in place will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

How to Make Black Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious black bean soup:

• 2 cups dried black beans (or 3 cans of black beans)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Avocado slices (optional, for serving)

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to prepare your black bean soup.

1. Cook the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the spices: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Let them cook for about 1 minute to bring out their flavours.
3. Add the beans and broth: Pour in your soaked (or canned) black beans and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld together.
5. Blend some of the soup: Use an immersion blender to purée about half of the soup, or transfer a portion to a regular blender for blending. This will give the soup a creamy texture while retaining some of the beans’ integrity.
6. Season: Add salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste. Stir well.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Black Bean Soup Recipe Variation

Want to change up your black bean soup? Here are some variations you can try:

• Spicy Black Bean Soup: Add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give your soup a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Black Bean Soup: Make it even more veggie-packed by adding corn, carrots, or zucchini.
• Meat Lover’s Black Bean Soup: Add cooked ground beef, chicken, or bacon for a meaty twist.

How to Serve Black Bean Soup Recipe

Black bean soup is versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas:

• With Rice: Serve the soup over a bed of rice to make it more filling.
• With Tortilla Chips: Add some crunch by topping the soup with tortilla chips.
• With Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the soup.
• With a Side Salad: A light salad on the side can balance the richness of the soup.

Storage Options

Suppose you have leftovers, black bean soup stores well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• In the Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: For more extended storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before freezing.

FAQs About Black Bean Soup Recipe

How long does it take to make black bean soup?

It takes about 1 hour to make black bean soup, including the time to cook the beans and blend the soup. If you’re using canned beans, the process will be quicker.

Can I make black bean soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make black bean soup in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours. This method enhances the flavors and makes the soup extra rich.

Is black bean soup healthy?

Black bean soup is a nutritious option, rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also low in fat, making it an excellent meal for anyone seeking a balanced diet.

Can I freeze black bean soup?

Yes, black bean soup freezes well. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, and it will stay suitable for up to three months.