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There’s something deeply comforting about a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day. The aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth before your first spoonful. But this spicy black bean soup isn’t just comfort food it’s bold, nourishing, and energizing. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel cared for while also waking up your senses with layers of flavor and a touch of heat.
If you’ve been searching for a healthy, hearty, and flavor-packed soup that comes together easily, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos. You’ll love how the creamy texture of the blended beans marries with earthy vegetables, vibrant cilantro, citrusy brightness, and a subtle fiery kick. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with a wholesome yet exciting dish.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Black Bean Soup
- Rich and Creamy Texture – Thanks to blending a portion of the soup, you get a luscious consistency without heavy cream.
- Complete Protein & Fiber – Black beans are both satisfying and nourishing, making this soup filling and energizing.
- Customizable Spice Level – You control the heat, from mild warmth to extra spicy.
- Perfect Make-Ahead Meal – Stores well for days and reheats beautifully.
Healthy Spicy Black Bean Soup Rich in Protein
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and spicy black bean soup made with savory vegetables, earthy cumin, and a touch of citrus, perfect for cozy nights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
- 3 celery ribs, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, sliced thin
- 6 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
- 4 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1–2 teaspoons sherry vinegar or 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: diced avocado, extra cilantro, radishes, tortilla chips
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, celery, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Cook until soft (10–15 min).
2. Stir in garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add beans and broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 30 minutes.
4. Blend 4 cups of soup until smooth. Return blended portion to pot.
5. Add cilantro, vinegar or lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve with desired garnishes.
Notes
Adjust spice level to taste.
Can be made ahead and stored for days.
Add greens for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients for Spicy Black Bean Soup
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing vegetables |
| Medium yellow onions, chopped | 2 | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Celery ribs, finely chopped | 3 | Balances the flavor |
| Large carrot, sliced thin | 1 | Adds color & natural sweetness |
| Garlic, pressed or minced | 6 cloves | Use fresh for best flavor |
| Ground cumin | 4 ½ teaspoons | Smoky and earthy |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon | Adjust for spice preference |
| Black beans, rinsed & drained | 4 cans (15 oz each) | Use good quality beans |
| Low-sodium vegetable broth | 4 cups (32 oz) | Base for the soup |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | ¼ cup | Optional, for freshness |
| Sherry vinegar or lime juice | 1–2 tsp vinegar or 2 tbsp lime | Brightens flavor |
| Sea salt & freshly ground pepper | To taste | Enhances all flavors |
| Optional garnishes | – | Diced avocado, radishes, tortilla chips |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, celery, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 10–15 minutes until soft and fragrant. - Layer the Flavors
Stir in garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. - Add Beans & Broth
Pour in black beans and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to maintain simmer. Cook for 30 minutes until beans are tender and broth is rich in flavor. - Blend for Creaminess
Transfer 4 cups of the soup to a blender; blend until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup directly in the pot. - Brighten and Season
Stir the blended portion back into the pot. Add cilantro and vinegar or lime juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. - Serve with Garnishes
Enjoy with avocado chunks, fresh cilantro, thinly sliced radishes, and crisp tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Spicy Black Bean Soup
- Control the Heat – Reduce red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder soup, or double them for extra spice.
- Skip the Cilantro – If you’re not a fan, substitute parsley or fresh green onions.
- Go Smoky – Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a richer flavor profile.
- Boost Nutrition – Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Spicy Black Bean Soup
Q: Can I make this spicy black bean soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Blend part of the soup before serving.
Q: What’s the best accompaniments to this soup?
A: Cornbread, warm tortillas, or a fresh side salad complement it perfectly.
Q: How do I make it thicker?
A: Blend more of the beans, or simmer uncovered for longer to reduce the liquid.
Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Absolutely. Soak and cook dried beans beforehand, then follow the same process.
Conclusion – Your New Go-To Soup
This spicy black bean soup is the ultimate combination of bold flavor, hearty ingredients, and creamy texture all in a nourishing bowl you’ll crave again and again. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a comforting weekend treat, it’s a versatile dish that truly delivers on taste. Make it your own by adjusting the spice, playing with garnishes, and pairing it with your favorite sides.