Black Bean Noodle Soup
A deeply flavorful and hearty soup made from scratch with dried black beans, whole wheat noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables. This comforting, one-pot meal is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, seasoned with aromatic spices and a bright squeeze of lime.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 50 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Soak and cook the black beans
- b.Place the dried black beans in a large bowl and cover with water by at least 2 inches. Let them soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
- c.Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
- d.Transfer the beans to a pressure cooker with 4 cups of fresh water. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes.
- e.Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the lid. Set the cooked beans and their liquid aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the aromatics and vegetables
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- d.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- e.Add the diced carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 6-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to get tender.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the soup base
- b.Add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes until they break down and the mixture thickens.
- c.Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano. Toast the spices for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer the soup and cook noodles
- b.Pour in the cooked black beans along with their cooking liquid, plus the remaining 5 cups of water. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- c.Once simmering, add the broken whole wheat spaghetti.
- d.Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through (al dente).
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
- c.Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice for brightness if desired.
- d.Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking beans overnight not only reduces cooking time but also makes them easier to digest.
- 2Don't overcook the noodles; they should be al dente as they will continue to soften in the hot broth.
- 3If meal prepping, cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving to prevent them from getting mushy.
- 4For extra depth of flavor, add a bay leaf to the pot while the soup simmers and remove it before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten free
Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or another pasta shape. Ensure your chili powder is certified gluten-free.
spicySpicy
Add one finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices for a fiery kick.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in 1 cup of cooked quinoa or crumbled firm tofu during the last 5 minutes of simmering for an extra protein boost.
quickQuick
If short on time, use 2 cans (15 oz each) of low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained. Skip the soaking and pressure cooking steps and use 6 cups of water for the soup base.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Black beans are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and building, making this soup very satisfying.
High in Dietary Fiber
The combination of beans, vegetables, and whole wheat noodles provides ample fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Packed with Vitamins
Carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes offer a range of vitamins like A and C, which are crucial for immune function and skin health.
Supports Heart Health
This soup is low in saturated fat and sodium, and the fiber from beans can help manage cholesterol levels, contributing to better heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. It's packed with plant-based protein and fiber from black beans, complex carbs from whole wheat noodles, and vitamins from the fresh vegetables. It's also low in fat and made without processed ingredients.