Zesty Black Bean Soup | Hearty & Flavorful Recipe

This Zesty Black Bean Soup is a bold and flavorful dish packed with protein, fiber, and a hint of spice. Made with black beans, aromatic spices, and fresh lime juice, this soup is hearty, vegan-friendly, and perfect for a cozy meal. Serve it with tortilla chips, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp oregano
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
• 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp chipotle powder for smoky heat

Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the onion, red bell pepper, and carrot. Mince the garlic.
2. Drain and Rinse the Beans: Remove excess liquid from the canned black beans.

Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add Beans and Simmer

1. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 25–30 minutes.

3. Blend for Texture

1. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy consistency while keeping some chunks for texture.
2. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.

4. Final Touches

1. Stir in lime juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Final Presentation/Serving Suggestions

• Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a side of rice.
• Garnish with sliced avocado, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro for extra freshness.
• Pair with a spicy margarita or iced hibiscus tea for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

• Calories: ~280 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Vitamins: High in Vitamin C (bell pepper) and iron (black beans).

Grocery List

Produce

• Onion (1 medium)
• Garlic (3 cloves)
• Red bell pepper (1 medium)
• Carrot (1 medium)
• Lime (1)
• Optional: Fresh cilantro, avocado

Pantry Staples

• Black beans (2 cans, 15 oz each)
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz)
• Vegetable broth (4 cups)
• Olive oil
• Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper

Optional

• Red pepper flakes
• Corn (1 cup)
• Chipotle powder

Cooking Tips and Variations

• Make It Thicker: Mash some of the black beans before adding them to the soup.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken or a scoop of quinoa.