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Bowl of simple black bean soup garnished with cilantro and lime

Black Bean Soup

This easy Black Bean Soup is a comforting blend of aromatic flavors, perfect for chilly evenings. Nourishing and satisfying, it's sure to become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine Comfort Food, Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for deepening flavors
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced adds sweet and aromatic touch
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced contributes color and sweetness
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced for aroma
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste rich and tangy flavor
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin earthy and warm
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder for heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
  • 3 cans (15 oz each) black beans two drained and rinsed, one undrained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes adds acidity
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth soup base
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper adds a kick
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice for brightness
  • 4 wedges lime (for serving) adds fresh zest
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
  • 1 medium avocado, diced (optional) creamy garnish
  • 1 cup crushed corn tortilla chips (optional) for topping

Instructions
 

Cooking the Soup

  • In a Dutch oven or a sturdy soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
  • Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.
  • Toss in the minced garlic, tomato paste, ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the black beans (both drained and undrained), diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer for 15-18 minutes.
  • Blend about half of the soup with an immersion blender or standard blender until smooth, then return it to the pot.
  • Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  • Ladle soup into bowls and serve warm with garnishes as desired.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust the soup's consistency by blending more or adding broth. Serve hot for best taste.
Keyword Black Bean Soup, Easy Recipe, Healthy Meal, Hearty Soup, Vegan Soup