Looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious? Look no further than this hearty Black Bean Soup recipe. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you’re craving a comforting bowl of warmth, this soup is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful Black Bean Soup.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lime, juiced
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Avocado slices, for serving
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics**: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. **Season the Soup**: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
3. **Add Beans and Broth**: Add the black beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a simmer.
4. **Simmer and Blend**: Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
5. **Season to Taste**: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in the juice of a lime to brighten up the flavors.
6. **Serve and Garnish**: Ladle the Black Bean Soup into bowls. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
7. **Store and Reheat**: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Warm, flavorful, and packed with healthy ingredients, this Black Bean Soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is versatile and filling. Get creative with your toppings and serve it alongside some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. So, whip up a batch of this delicious soup and bask in the warm, comforting flavors it brings to the table.
