Hearty Black Bean Soup

Black bean soup is one of those meals that delivers way more than you would expect from such a simple ingredient list. The beans themselves are hearty and protein-rich, and when paired with cumin, garlic, and a squeeze of lime, they create a deeply flavorful, soul-warming bowl.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1½ tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Redmond Real Salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

*Bolded ingredients are products we typically carry at Tare Bulk Foods.

Directions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add the garlic and jalapeno. Cook for 1 minute.
  3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the soaked beans, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beans are very tender.
  6. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving about half the beans whole for texture.
  7. Stir in the lime juice and adjust seasoning. Serve topped with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

  • For a quicker version, use 4½ cups cooked black beans and simmer for just 20 minutes.
  • Top with diced avocado, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cayenne for extra heat.
  • This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.