A steaming bowl of homemade black bean soup garnished with cilantro and lime.

Black Bean Soup

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Black Bean Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s not only comforting but also packed with nutrients like fiber and protein. This recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can be easily made vegan, making it a great option for everyone.

how to make Black Bean Soup

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
  • 2 celery ribs (diced)
  • 1 medium carrot (diced)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans (including the liquid in the cans)
  • 2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo sauce (chopped, plus 2 tablespoons sauce)
  • 1½ cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (plus wedges for serving)
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, sour cream or vegan sour cream, pickled onions, serrano peppers, pepitas

Directions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, celery, carrot, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
  3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Stir for 30 seconds to release the flavors.
  4. Stir in the black beans with their liquid, chipotles, adobo sauce, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 30 minutes.
  5. Let the soup cool slightly. Transfer half of it to a blender and puree until smooth. Add it back to the pot with the remaining soup. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to puree half the soup in the pot.
  6. Stir in the lime juice and season to taste. Serve with lime wedges and your desired toppings.

how to serve Black Bean Soup

Serve the Black Bean Soup warm. Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or sour cream. Don’t forget the lime wedges which add a fresh zing to every bite!

how to store Black Bean Soup

Allow any leftover Black Bean Soup to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

tips to make Black Bean Soup

  • For added depth of flavor, consider adding some smoked paprika or a bay leaf during cooking.
  • If you like it spicier, add more chipotle peppers or diced jalapeños.
  • Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.

variation

You can make a lighter version of this soup by reducing the amount of olive oil or using low-sodium vegetable broth. For a heartier option, mix in some cooked quinoa or rice to the soup before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Soak about 1 cup of dried black beans overnight, then cook them in the vegetable broth until tender before following the rest of the recipe.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this Black Bean Soup is gluten-free. Just make sure the broth and any toppings you use are also gluten-free.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors actually get better as it sits. You can make it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.