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Easy Black Bean Soup with Pantry Staples

Close-up of steaming hot black bean soup with dark, rich liquid and visible beans in a white bowl.

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Make this rich, hearty black bean soup using simple canned beans and pantry spices. It is a quick, comforting meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  3. Stir in the rinsed black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the 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 combine.
  5. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend about half of the soup until creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer half the soup to a standard blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. Leave the remaining half chunky for texture.
  6. Stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a creamier soup, use only one can of beans for blending and keep both cans of beans whole for texture.
  • Top this hearty soup with avocado slices, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
  • If you prefer a smoky black bean soup flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of liquid smoke along with the broth.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan and vegetarian. For a low-calorie option, use low-sodium broth.

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