Craving a comforting and wholesome meal? This Smoky Black Bean Tortilla Soup is a hearty and flavorful choice. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Black Beans: Canned black beans work perfectly; just rinse them well.
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning.
- Smoked Paprika: Essential for that smoky flavor; don’t skip it!
- Tortilla Strips: You can use store-bought or make your own from corn tortillas.
- Avocado: Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado, diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
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. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Combine Main Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer and Season
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Top with your favorite garnishes like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and crunchy tortilla strips. Enjoy your delicious and healthy beans recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño with the onions for extra heat.
- Creamy Texture: Blend one can of black beans with a little broth before adding to the soup for a thicker consistency.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in corn, bell peppers, or spinach during the last few minutes of simmering.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Smoky Black Bean Tortilla Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you freeze black bean tortilla soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Are dried black beans an option?
You can use dried black beans, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand according to package directions. Canned beans are much quicker for this recipe.
- What can you use instead of tortilla strips?
Crushed corn tortilla chips or even a dollop of plant-based sour cream can be great alternatives for toppings.
- Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Smoky Black Bean Tortilla Soup is naturally vegan, making it a fantastic healthy beans recipe for everyone.
- Can you make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a perfect meal prep option. Just reheat and add fresh toppings when serving.
- How can you make the soup thicker?
For a thicker soup, mash about a quarter of the black beans against the side of the pot with a spoon, or blend a portion of the soup before combining.