Imagine a steaming bowl of rich, aromatic black bean soup that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico with just one spoonful. This isn't just another soup recipe - it's a heartwarming culinary experience that combines traditional flavors, nutritious ingredients, and a touch of Caribbean magic. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a health-conscious cook, or simply craving a comforting meal that tells a story, this Puerto Rican Black Bean Soup will become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups black beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by soaking 2 cups of black beans in water overnight. This will help to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the black beans under cold water. Set them aside.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper to the pot. Continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Stir in the soaked black beans, followed by 4 cups of vegetable broth. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck to the surface.
- Add 1 teaspoon of cumin to the mixture, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or cumin as desired.
- Once the beans are fully cooked, remove the pot from heat. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup, or transfer a portion to a blender and then return it to the pot.
- Serve the Puerto Rican Black Bean Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy!
Tips
- Soaking is Key: Always soak your black beans overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps improve digestibility and creates a creamier texture.
- Layer Your Flavors: Take time to properly sauté your onions, garlic, and bell peppers. This builds a flavor foundation that will elevate the entire dish.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the beans to become tender and absorb all the delicious spices.
- Texture Variation: For a more rustic feel, leave the soup chunky. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup.
- Seasoning Secrets: Don't be afraid to adjust cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go to create a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Garnish Creatively: Top your soup with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or even some diced avocado for extra richness.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
