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Easy, Hearty Black Bean Soup for Weeknight Dinners

Close-up of a steaming white bowl filled with rich, dark black bean soup, garnished with whole black beans.
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This recipe delivers a flavorful, hearty black bean soup that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. It uses simple pantry staples and offers a naturally creamy texture.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained (or 3 cups cooked beans)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), vegetable broth, and bay leaf.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
  6. For a creamy black bean soup texture, carefully transfer about two-thirds of the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until smooth, then return the blended portion to the pot (if using a standard blender). Alternatively, leave the soup chunky for a heartier texture.
  7. Stir in the fresh lime juice, if using. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  8. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

Notes

  • For a smoky black bean soup flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten free.
  • Toppings that enhance flavor include fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, or a squeeze of extra lime.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for an extra 10 minutes after blending.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/easy-black-bean-soup-recipe-hearty/