Smoky & Creamy Black Bean Soup
A thick, velvety black bean soup that achieves its luxurious creaminess from blended beans, not heavy cream. Infused with smoky chipotle and earthy cumin, it offers a deeply comforting and satisfying flavor experience.
For 6 servings
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced red bell pepper, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in minced garlic, chipotle powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Add the two cans of black beans (undrained) and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend about two-thirds to three-quarters of the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired creamy consistency, leaving some whole beans for texture. (Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.)
Return the pot to low heat. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure it is heated through and the seasonings are fully incorporated.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt (if using), a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro, and a fresh lime wedge for squeezing.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the bell pepper before adding it to the soup. This adds a sweet, smoky depth.
- 2Don't over-blend! Leaving some whole beans provides a pleasant textural contrast to the otherwise creamy soup.
- 3This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- 4Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chipotle powder. For a milder soup, reduce the amount; for a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Stir in shredded cooked chicken or crumbled cooked chorizo at the end for a heartier, meat-lover's version.
Vegan & Dairy FreeVegan & Dairy-Free
Omit the Greek yogurt or substitute it with a dollop of cashew cream, a swirl of coconut milk, or a spoonful of mashed avocado for a rich, plant-based garnish.
Topping BarTopping Bar
Offer a variety of toppings like diced avocado, crispy tortilla strips, pickled red onions, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese to let everyone customize their bowl.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Black beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Plant-Based Protein
This soup provides a significant amount of plant-based protein from the black beans, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal, especially for vegetarians and vegans.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Ingredients like black beans, bell peppers, and garlic are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body's cells from damage and support overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
