Spicy Black Bean Soup
Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for serving
- Avocado, diced, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the red bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Stir in the lime juice and serve with fresh cilantro and diced avocado.
This spicy black bean soup is a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for cold nights. The combination of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika gives it a bold and smoky flavor, while the lime juice adds a bright and tangy note. The black beans provide protein and fiber, and the diced tomatoes and red bell pepper add a touch of sweetness and color. Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling and comforting meal.