Black bean soup, an exquisite blend of beans and spices, is a delightful dish to curl up with during the colder months. This recipe brings together the robust flavors of black beans, vegetables, and a hint of spice that can be easily adjusted to your preference. The warmth from the cumin, the crunch from the optional garnishes, and the deep, hearty flavor of the black beans all create a soup that's not just filling, but also incredibly satisfying.
The only ingredient you might not commonly find in your home is sherry vinegar. This is a type of wine vinegar that's slightly sweeter than regular vinegar. It adds a unique tanginess to the soup which complements the earthy black beans. If you can't find it at your local supermarket, it can be replaced with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar.
Ingredients Required for Spicy Black Bean Soup
Extra-virgin olive oil: A healthier choice for cooking due to its high antioxidant content.
Yellow onions: They add a sweet and tangy flavor.
Celery ribs: They bring a pleasant crunch and mild flavor to the soup.
Carrot: Adds a sweet touch and vibrant color.
Garlic cloves: They infuse the soup with a robust flavor.
Ground cumin: It gives a warm and aromatic flavor.
Red pepper flakes: They provide a spicy kick. Adjust as per your spice preference.
Black beans: The star ingredient, they're rich in fiber and protein.
Vegetable broth: It forms the base of the soup, you can also use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.
Cilantro: It adds a fresh taste and pleasing green color.
Sherry vinegar: A specialty vinegar that adds a sweet and tangy note.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: They provide basic seasoning.
Optional garnishes (avocado, cilantro, radishes, tortilla chips): They add texture and extra flavor.
One reader, Arly Cheek says:
This spicy black bean soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the kick of heat is just perfect. It's a comforting and hearty dish that's easy to make. I love adding avocado and cilantro on top for an extra burst of freshness. It's a definite winner!
Techniques Required for Making Spicy Black Bean Soup
How to sauté vegetables: Sautéing vegetables involves cooking them in a small amount of oil or fat over medium-high heat until they are tender and slightly browned. It's important to stir the vegetables frequently to ensure even cooking.
How to blend soup: When blending soup, it's essential to allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to a blender. Blend the soup in batches if necessary, and be sure to secure the blender lid tightly to prevent any hot liquid from splattering. Alternatively, an immersion blender can be used directly in the pot to blend the soup to a smooth consistency.
How to adjust seasoning: After preparing the soup, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the desired flavor. Remember that flavors can intensify as the soup simmers, so it's best to season conservatively at first.
How To Make Spicy Black Bean Soup
Turn your normal canned black beans into a delicious black bean soup with the addition of Cuban spices and fresh veggies cooked together in one pot.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspextra-virgin olive oil
- 2medium yellow onions,chopped
- 3celery ribs,finely chopped
- 1large carrot,peeled, sliced into thin rounds
- 6garlic cloves,pressed or minced
- 4½tspground cumin
- ½tspred pepper flakes,or ¼ if sensitive to spice
- 15ozblack beans,rinsed, drained
- 32ozvegetable broth,low-sodium
- ¼cupcilantro,fresh, chopped, optional
- 1tspsherry vinegar,to taste, or 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- avocado,diced
- cilantro,extra
- radishes,thinly sliced
- tortilla chips
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat until shimmering.
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Add the onions, celery, and carrot, then a light sprinkle of salt.
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Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
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Stir in the garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes, then cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the beans and broth, then bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
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Cook, reducing the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer, for 30 minutes until the beans are very tender.
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Transfer about 4 cups of the soup to a stand blender, securely fasten the lid, then blend until smooth. Alternative, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup.
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Return the pureed soup to the pot, then stir in the cilantro, and vinegar. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 319.55kcal
- Fat: 6.08g
- Saturated Fat: 0.96g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.66g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.02g
- Carbohydrates: 52.04g
- Fiber: 12.91g
- Sugar: 4.10g
- Protein: 16.66g
- Sodium: 709.96mg
- Calcium: 140.55mg
- Potassium: 1275.19mg
- Iron: 5.03mg
- Vitamin A: 124.35µg
- Vitamin C: 6.53mg
Technique Tip for Enhancing Spicy Black Bean Soup
When blending the soup, be sure to leave some of the black beans and vegetables whole. This will give your soup a more varied texture and make each bite interesting. Also, if you're using an immersion blender, tilt the pot slightly to create a deeper pool for blending. This will help prevent the blender from splattering and make the process easier. Remember, the key to a great spicy black bean soup is a balance of flavors and textures.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Spicy Soup
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned black beans to save time on soaking and cooking dried beans.
Invest in a food processor: A food processor can quickly chop vegetables and herbs, saving you time on prep work.
One-pot cooking: Choose recipes that can be made in a single pot to minimize cleanup and save time.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to work efficiently while cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Black Bean Soup Recipe
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for extra-virgin olive oil in this recipe.
yellow onions - Substitute with white onions: White onions have a similar flavor profile to yellow onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
celery ribs - Substitute with fennel bulb: Fennel bulb has a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor that can replace the crunch and texture of celery in the soup.
carrot - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potato can add a natural sweetness and similar texture to the soup as carrots.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a concentrated garlic flavor.
ground cumin - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a similar earthy and spicy flavor to the soup as ground cumin.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide the same heat level and spiciness as red pepper flakes in the soup.
black beans - Substitute with kidney beans: Kidney beans can be used as a substitute for black beans, providing a similar texture and taste to the soup.
vegetable broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for vegetable broth, adding a savory flavor to the soup.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the soup.
sherry vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar can add a similar tangy and acidic flavor to the soup as sherry vinegar.
Best Way to Present Spicy Black Bean Soup
Elevate the soup with a drizzle of cilantro-infused olive oil: A drizzle of cilantro-infused olive oil will add a layer of complexity and a touch of luxury to the soup. It will enhance the flavors and provide a beautiful sheen to the dish.
Garnish with avocado roses: Create delicate and visually stunning avocado roses to add a touch of elegance to the presentation. The creamy texture and vibrant green color will complement the rich flavors of the soup.
Incorporate tortilla chip shards for texture: Add a textural element to the dish by incorporating crispy tortilla chip shards. They will provide a satisfying crunch and elevate the overall dining experience.
Use radish slices for a pop of color: Thinly sliced radishes will not only add a pop of color to the dish but also contribute a refreshing and peppery flavor, enhancing the visual appeal and taste of the soup.
Present in sophisticated, minimalist bowls: Opt for sophisticated, minimalist bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup. The presentation should be clean and refined, allowing the soup to take center stage.
Essential Tools for Making Spicy Bean Soup
- Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for slow cooking soups and stews.
- Blender: Used to puree a portion of the soup to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Immersion blender: An alternative to a traditional blender, used to blend the soup directly in the pot.
- Knife: Essential for chopping the onions, celery, carrot, and garlic.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
- Measuring spoons: Used to accurately measure the ground cumin, red pepper flakes, and sherry vinegar.
- Measuring cups: Essential for measuring the vegetable broth and cilantro.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup while it simmers and ensuring even cooking.
- Ladle: Used for serving the soup into bowls.
- Soup bowls: The vessel for serving and enjoying the delicious spicy black bean soup.
How To Store and Freeze Spicy Black Bean Soup
- Let the spicy black bean soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
- If you plan to freeze the soup, consider the following steps:
- Portion the cooled soup into individual serving sizes using freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. This allows you to thaw only what you need later.
- Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, ensuring they lie flat for even freezing.
- Frozen black bean soup will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. However, it will remain safe to consume beyond that time, although the texture and flavor may slightly diminish.
- To reheat the soup, first, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed soup to a pot and gently heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
- If the soup appears too thick after freezing and reheating, you can thin it out with a little vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Black Bean Soup
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover black bean soup to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is evenly reheated without scorching or burning. If the soup appears too thick, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
Microwave method: pour the leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave the soup on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: if you have a larger quantity of leftover spicy black bean soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker, cover it with the lid, and heat it on the low setting for 1-2 hours, or until it is heated through. This method is particularly useful if you want to keep the soup warm for an extended period, such as during a party or gathering.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is suitable if you are reheating a large quantity of soup or if you want to reheat it alongside other dishes in the oven.
Garnish and serve: once the black bean soup is reheated, ladle it into bowls and garnish with your preferred toppings, such as diced avocado, fresh cilantro, sliced radishes, or crushed tortilla chips. These garnishes will add fresh flavors, textures, and visual appeal to your reheated soup, making it taste just as delicious as when it was first prepared.
Random Fact About Spicy Black Bean Soup
Black bean soup is a popular dish in many Latin American countries and is often enjoyed as a hearty and nutritious meal. It is a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a healthy and filling option for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, black beans are rich in antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health and well-being. This soup is a versatile dish that can be customized with different spices and garnishes to suit individual preferences, making it a favorite for those seeking a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Is Making Spicy Black Bean Soup Economical for Home Cooking?
This spicy black bean soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Black beans are an affordable source of protein and fiber, while the addition of vegetable broth and aromatic vegetables keeps the overall cost low. With simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this recipe offers a satisfying and nutritious meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $10. The rich flavors and hearty texture make it a comforting choice, earning a solid 9/10 rating for its affordability and taste.
Is This Spicy Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The spicy black bean soup recipe is a nutritious and wholesome dish that offers several health benefits. The recipe is packed with fiber-rich black beans, which aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy gut. The vegetables used, such as onions, celery, and carrots, provide essential vitamins and minerals. The use of olive oil, a healthy fat, is another positive aspect of this recipe. Additionally, the soup is low in saturated fat and contains no added sugars, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of salt used or replace it with low-sodium vegetable broth to lower the overall sodium content
- Add more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to increase the nutrient density of the soup
- Use whole grain tortilla chips as a garnish to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Include a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or tofu, to make the soup more satiating and balanced
Editor's Thoughts on This Spicy Black Bean Soup Recipe
This spicy black bean soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of cumin, red pepper flakes, and garlic adds a depth of warmth and spice, while the pureed black beans create a velvety, satisfying base. The addition of cilantro and sherry vinegar provides a refreshing and tangy finish. This soup is versatile and can be customized with optional garnishes like creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, crunchy radishes, or crispy tortilla chips. It's a comforting and nourishing dish that is sure to please the palate and warm the soul.
Enhance Your Spicy Black Bean Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Spicy Black Bean Soup Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying spicy black bean soup that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of cumin and red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick, while the use of black beans and vegetable broth ensures a hearty and nutritious meal. The addition of cilantro and sherry vinegar provides a refreshing and tangy finish. Trust in the expertise of this culinary creation for a delightful and comforting dining experience.
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