Easy Black Bean Soup – Healthy, Hearty, and Quick

Warm up with this Easy Black Bean Soup, a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Packed with protein, fiber, and delicious spices, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. This soup is naturally vegetarian, filling, and pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
• High in protein and fiber, naturally vegetarian
• Packed with bold flavors from garlic, cumin, and lime
• Perfect for meal prep and freezes well for later
• Comforting and filling without being heavy

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla strips

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using) and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Beans and Liquids: Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some beans whole for texture.
5. Season and Finish: Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle soup into bowls and top with fresh cilantro. Add optional toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, or tortilla strips.

Tips & Variations

• Spice it up: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream for a richer texture.
• Protein boost: Top with shredded chicken or cooked quinoa for extra protein.
• Make ahead: Soup can be prepared up to 2 days in advance; reheat before serving.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Portion soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a wedge of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• Pair with warm tortillas, cornbread, or a crusty baguette.
• Top with shredded cheese, avocado, or sour cream for added richness.
• Enjoy alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes! Soak 1 1/2 cups dried black beans overnight, then cook until tender before using. Reduce vegetable broth slightly to account for added liquid.

Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan when using vegetable broth.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes, add cayenne pepper, fresh jalapeños, or hot sauce according to your preference.

Can this soup be frozen?

Yes, portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove gently and stir well before serving.

Ready to Make It?

This Easy Black Bean Soup is hearty, flavorful, and simple to make. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

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