Name: Easy Black Bean Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Sour cream and lime wedges for serving

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Easy Black Bean Soup for Cozy Nights 🌱🖤🥣

1. Introduction

When the weather cools down or you’re simply craving a comforting, nutritious meal, a bowl of black bean soup can be your perfect companion. This easy black bean soup recipe is a hearty vegetarian soup that combines the smoky richness of black beans with aromatic spices, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also quick to prepare and budget-friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this hearty bean soup easy to make and customize to your taste.

2. Ingredients for Delicious Black Bean Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cans (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, lime wedges

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Black Bean Soup

Prepare the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. During this process, the aroma of fresh vegetables will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious soup.

Sauté Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly to release the fragrant oils from the spices and garlic, enhancing the flavor base of your vegetarian soup.

Add Beans and Broth

Stir in the drained black beans and vegetable broth. Drop in the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving your hearty bean soup its characteristic richness.

Blend the Soup

Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth or chunky, according to your preference. For a different texture, you can also transfer part of the soup to a blender and pulse a few times, then return it to the pot. This step creates the velvety consistency that makes your black bean soup truly comforting.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with your favorite toppings such as chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime. Serve hot, and enjoy the cozy goodness!

4. Tips for Perfect Black Bean Soup

If you prefer a creamier soup, blend all the ingredients fully until smooth. For a chunkier version, blend only part of the soup.
For added protein, toss in some cooked quinoa or top with fried plantains.

Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

5. Storage and Reheating

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat until steaming hot, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens upon refrigeration, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it before reheating.

6. Serving Suggestions and Variations

This easy black bean soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a Southwestern twist, add chopped jalapeños or shredded Monterey Jack cheese. vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diners will love that this soup naturally suits many dietary preferences. To make it more filling, serve with rice or cornbread, and if you like a smoky flavor, sprinkle a dash of smoked paprika on top.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute canned beans with dried black beans?

Yes, but you will need to soak and cook dried black beans beforehand. It enhances the flavor but requires additional time. For convenience, canned beans are recommended for this quick recipe.

Is this soup suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! This vegetarian soup is vegan-friendly as long as you use vegetable broth and toppings like vegan sour cream or cheese.

**How long does it take to prepare this black bean soup?**

The total prep and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a quick yet hearty meal for busy weeknights.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add chopped zucchinis, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for roasting or reheating leftovers to keep your meals crispy and delicious.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — This cookware set ensures even heating and makes cooking soups efficient and fun.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — An all-in-one appliance to add grilled flavor to toppings or sides.

Investing in quality kitchen tools can elevate your cooking experience and make preparing hearty, delicious soups even easier.

9. Conclusion

This easy black bean soup is a perfect comfort food for cozy nights, offering a flavorful, hearty, and nutritious meal that can be customized to suit your taste. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a quick vegetarian dinner or a versatile dish to make ahead and enjoy later, this hearty bean soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. For more delightful recipes and kitchen tips, don’t forget to explore our other delicious ideas on Serena Recipes.

Easy Black Bean Soup for Cozy Nights