Oh, let me tell you about my love affair with Black Bean Southwest Soup! It’s one of those go-to recipes that just hugs you from the inside out. I remember the first time I whipped it up on a chilly evening; the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. This soup is not only hearty and packed with bold southwestern flavors, but it’s also vegan! In just about 30 minutes, you’ve got a warm bowl of deliciousness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Trust me, the combination of black beans, corn, and spices will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Ingredients for Black Bean Southwest Soup
Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to create your delicious Black Bean Southwest Soup:
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained – these add that hearty base and a protein punch!
- 1 cup corn kernels – for a touch of sweetness and texture, fresh or frozen works great.
- 1 diced bell pepper – I love using red or yellow for their vibrant color and sweetness.
- 1 diced onion – it brings that savory depth to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 teaspoon cumin – for that earthy, warm flavor that screams southwest.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – adjust to your spice preference for that extra kick.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – the soul of the soup, so choose a good quality one!
- Salt and pepper to taste – season it up to your liking.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish – it adds a pop of color and freshness on top!
How to Prepare Black Bean Southwest Soup
Making Black Bean Southwest Soup is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step! Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious soup bubbling away in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot, but not screaming! Add in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté these beauties for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re nice and soft. This is where the magic begins!
- Next, stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant—oh wow, the smell is going to be amazing! Just keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Now, it’s time to add the star players: the black beans, corn kernels, and vegetable broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This step lets all those flavors meld together beautifully. Don’t forget to check and stir occasionally!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your moment to adjust the flavors to your liking. Serve it hot, and don’t skimp on the cilantro garnish for that fresh touch!
And there you have it! A warm, hearty bowl of Black Bean Southwest Soup ready to enjoy. How easy was that?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—just 30 minutes from start to finish!
- Hearty and flavorful, it’s a bowl of comfort on chilly days.
- Vegan and packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
- Freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance for easy meal prep!
Tips for Success with Black Bean Southwest Soup
To ensure your Black Bean Southwest Soup turns out fantastic every time, here are some handy tips! First, don’t be shy when it comes to adjusting the spices. If you love heat, feel free to add more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne pepper! For storage, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to bring back that perfect consistency. Enjoy your delicious soup again and again!
Nutritional Information for Black Bean Southwest Soup
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each serving of Black Bean Southwest Soup:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy your hearty, nourishing bowl of goodness!
FAQ about Black Bean Southwest Soup
Got questions about your Black Bean Southwest Soup? I’ve got answers!
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned? Absolutely! Just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand to soften them up. It’ll take a bit more time, but the flavor is worth it!
How can I make it spicier? If you want to kick it up a notch, try adding more chili powder or some diced jalapeños. You can also throw in a dash of hot sauce just before serving!
What can I serve with this soup? I love pairing it with crusty bread or a side salad. Avocado slices on top add a creamy touch that complements the soup beautifully!
If you have more questions, feel free to ask—happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Black Bean Southwest Soup
When it comes to enjoying your Black Bean Southwest Soup, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal! I love serving it with some warm, crusty bread for dipping. A fresh side salad with a zesty dressing pairs beautifully, adding a crisp contrast to the soup’s heartiness. And don’t forget avocado slices on top or on the side—it’s like a creamy finishing touch that takes it to the next level. Enjoy every spoonful!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
For a great side dish, try our Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili recipe!
And if you’re looking for a dessert to pair with your soup, our Strawberry Cheesecake is a perfect choice!
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Black Bean Southwest Soup: 5 Steps to Cozy Goodness
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and flavorful black bean soup with a southwestern twist.
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 diced bell pepper
- 1 diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add black beans, corn, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust spices to taste.
- Can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Black Bean Southwest Soup