Hearty Black Bean Stoup with Vegetables and Cumin

Black Bean Stoup
Black Bean Stoup is a hearty, flavorful dish that bridges the gap between a stew and a soup, hence the playful name “stoup.” Packed with protein-rich black beans, vegetables, and a touch of spice, this comforting meal is a staple of home cooking. Its origins trace to classic American home kitchens where cooks sought to make satisfying, budget-friendly meals with pantry staples. The addition of cumin, lime, and hot sauce gives it a zesty, Southwestern-inspired twist. It’s perfect served with a grilled cheese sandwich or a dollop of sour cream.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Soup, stew
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 6
Calories 275 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pieces celery (chopped)
  • 1 bell pepper (chopped)
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 hot pepper (diced (optional))
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
  • 3 cans black beans (drained, reserve one can for mashing)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • 2 tbsp cumin
  • Hot sauce (to taste)
  • salt (to taste)
  • pepper (to taste)
  • 1 cup green onions (chopped)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 lime (juice and zest of)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté the Base

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add the bay leaf, garlic, and hot pepper. Sauté until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

  • Add chopped celery, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until softened.

Step 3: Incorporate Beans

  • Add two cans of drained black beans to the pot with the vegetables. Mash the third can slightly and add it to the pot for thickness.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

  • Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and the chicken stock. Stir well.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

  • Add cumin, salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  • Top with green onions, a dollop of sour cream, lime zest, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Step 7: Serving Suggestion

  • Serve hot with a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Tips

  • Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make the soup fully vegetarian.
  • For a thicker texture, mash more beans or add a spoonful of refried beans as suggested on the card.
  • Add smoked paprika or chipotle for a smokier flavor profile.
  • Substitute or add jalapeño or serrano peppers if you like extra heat.
  • Stir in a handful of corn or diced zucchini for more vegetables.
  • Garnish ideas: lime zest, lime juice, sour cream, chopped green onions (all are mentioned on the card).
  • Make it dairy-free by skipping the sour cream or swapping with dairy-free sour cream.
  • Serve as written with grilled cheese sandwiches, or with quesadillas or cornbread.
  • This soup freezes well; cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers.

Nutrition

Calories: 275kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 640mgPotassium: 730mgFiber: 10gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 28mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 3mg
Keyword black beans, comfort food, cumin, easy recipe, hearty soup, stovetop soup, vegetarian option, weeknight dinner
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