Are you ready to indulge in a warm, hearty bowl of flavor-packed goodness? Our Black Bean and Quinoa Soup is not just a meal; it's a delightful journey into the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine! Perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep, this nourishing soup combines the protein-rich goodness of black beans and quinoa with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with nutrients. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your loved ones with this easy-to-follow recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup black beans, cooked
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle cumin and chili powder over the vegetables, stirring to coat and release their aromatic flavors. Cook for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cooked black beans, and rinsed quinoa. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until quinoa is fully cooked and tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
- Once quinoa is cooked and soup has reached desired consistency, remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions, garlic, and bell pepper the night before. This way, you can simply toss them into the pot when you’re ready to cook!
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you enjoy a little kick, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the vegetables.
- Use Homemade Broth: For an extra depth of flavor, try using homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought. It can elevate the taste of your soup significantly.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like corn, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow your soup to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your soup by garnishing it with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
- Store Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for a quick meal later on. Just reheat and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
