Are you ready to warm your soul with a bowl of hearty, flavorful goodness? Dive into the delightful world of the "Inn at Cedar Crossing Black Bean Tomato Soup," where rich, earthy black beans meet the vibrant freshness of tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more! This easy-to-make soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious option for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can whip up a comforting dish that serves four and is perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining black beans, chopping onion, and mincing garlic. Measure out spices and have vegetable broth ready.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté chopped onions in the pot until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Pour in drained black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper into the soup. Stir well to distribute spices evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some beans whole for texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup in a standard blender and return to pot.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cumin to preference.
- Ladle hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping your ingredients in advance. Chop the onion and mince the garlic the night before, so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of smoked paprika during the cooking process. These small tweaks can elevate your soup to new heights!
- Texture Matters: If you prefer a chunkier soup, only partially blend the mixture with an immersion blender, leaving some beans whole for added texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup and return it to the pot for a perfect balance.
- Garnish for Greatness: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro garnish! It adds a burst of freshness that complements the soup beautifully. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices for creaminess.
- Serve with Style: Pair your soup with crusty bread or crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. Consider offering a side salad to round out the dining experience.
- Storage Savvy: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better with time! You can also freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
