This Black Bean Soup is quick, healthy, and full of bold flavor. Made with pantry staples and warm spices, it’s a nourishing one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy plant-based dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy, ready in about 25 minutes
- Healthy and naturally high in fiber & protein
- Budget-friendly pantry ingredients
- Customizable: spicy, smoky, or extra creamy
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained & rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup corn
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder (for heat)
Optional Toppings
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Avocado slices
- Tortilla strips or crushed chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add black beans and vegetable broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup (leave some beans whole for texture).
- Stir in lime juice, taste, and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm with desired toppings.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Immersion blender or countertop blender
- Measuring cups & spoons
Tips & Variations
- Extra creamy: Blend the soup fully or add a splash of coconut milk
- Spicy: Add jalapeño, cayenne, or chipotle powder
- Chunky texture: Blend only ⅓ of the soup
- Protein boost: Add shredded chicken or quinoa
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days
- Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread
- Pair with a side salad
- Top with avocado and cilantro for freshness
- Add a squeeze of extra lime before serving
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 8g
Conclusion
This Black Bean Soup (Quick & Healthy) is proof that simple ingredients can create bold flavor. Fast, nourishing, and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to whenever you want a wholesome, comforting meal. Save it, print it, and keep it in your weekly rotation.
FAQ – Black Bean Soup
Can I freeze black bean soup?
Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months.
How do I make it ahead of time?
Cook fully and refrigerate up to 5 days before reheating.
Can I make this soup vegan?
It already is! Just stick with vegetable broth.
How do I thicken black bean soup?
Blend more of the soup or simmer uncovered a few minutes longer.
Can I use dried black beans?
Yes, but cook them fully before adding to the recipe.