Description
This hearty black bean soup recipe is healthy, protein-packed, and full of flavor. Made with pantry staples like black beans, vegetables, and warming spices, it’s a comforting fall and winter dinner that’s naturally gluten-free and budget-friendly. Customize it with protein boosts like quinoa, lentils, or chicken, and enjoy it chunky or creamy. Perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 1 celery rib, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 quart (32 oz) vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Optional garnishes: diced avocado, shredded cheese, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, tortilla strips, sliced green onions
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 25 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, purée about one-third of the soup for a creamy yet chunky texture. (Or transfer a few cups to a blender and return to the pot.)
- Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Ladle into bowls, add your favorite garnishes, and serve warm.
Notes
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup, Dinner, Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 428 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 840 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 75 g
- Fiber: 26 g
- Protein: 26 g
