Craving a heartwarming, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This Barefoot Contessa-inspired black bean soup recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting weekend treat. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for showcasing the simple beauty of homemade cooking. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 6 servings of this healthy and delicious soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Building the Flavor:
- Stir in the minced garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. This step is key to building a deep, complex flavor profile in your soup.
Simmering to Perfection:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add the rinsed and drained black beans, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, for a richer, more developed flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
Serving Suggestions:
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Once the soup has simmered, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup, depending on your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply leave it as is.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt is also a delicious addition for those who prefer a creamier texture.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder soup, omit it entirely. A dash of smoked paprika adds another layer of smoky depth.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, carrots, or zucchini. Adding these early in the cooking process ensures they are tender and well-cooked.
- Make it a meal: Serve with crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe works beautifully in a slow cooker! Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 15g
- Fiber: Approximately 10g
This delicious black bean soup is a perfect example of how easy and satisfying healthy meals can be. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a true staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!