How to Make The Best Black Bean Soup is an ideal recipe for any time of year. This comforting and flavorful homemade soup comes together effortlessly using simple pantry ingredients.

Whether you’re craving a warm, hearty meal on a cold winter night or a light yet satisfying dish during the summer, this black bean soup delivers. With the rich and earthy flavors of black beans, paired with a harmonious blend of spices and seasonings, you’ll have a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed year-round.

One of my favorite things during the colder months is making homemade soup. I love hearty soups that feed not only the body but also the soul. There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of simmering ingredients and the warmth of a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day. The black bean soup recipe, with its rich, velvety texture and robust flavors, has become a cherished addition to my soup repertoire. It’s a perfect reminder that a well-prepared homemade soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together and provides a sense of nourishment, both physically and emotionally.

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Additionally, what I adore about homemade soups is their versatility. You can adjust the ingredients and spices to suit your personal preferences and dietary requirements. Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a milder flavor, or want to experiment with various toppings and garnishes, homemade soup recipes like the black bean soup offer endless possibilities for culinary creativity. Moreover, soup-making is an excellent way to use up ingredients from the pantry or fridge, reducing food waste and ensuring you make the most of what you have on hand. It’s an eco-friendly and budget-conscious way to prepare delicious, hearty meals that everyone can enjoy. So, as the colder months approach, don’t hesitate to embark on your own homemade soup-making adventure and explore the wonderful world of flavors, warmth, and nourishment that it offers.

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This easy recipe is perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.

With a blend of spices and the rich flavors of black beans, it’s a satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Follow these simple steps to make the best black bean soup.

Tools/Equipment Needed:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven
Ladle
Large Spoon
Strainer

Ingredients:

16 oz. Bag of dry black beans
8 cups cold water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large pot
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

Instructions:

The first step is to Soak the Black Beans. Rinse the beans and place them in a large pot. Either use a quick soaking method or an overnight soak.
After the soaking period, drain & rinse the beans.
In a large pot, add the rinsed beans and add 8 cups of water.
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and onion powder.
Stir well to combine all the black beans & spices.
On medium-high heat, bring to a boil
Turn heat to simmering. continue to simmer the soup for an additional 1 1 1/2 hours to allow the flavors to blend. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and more cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.
Once the soup has reached your desired flavor and consistency, it’s ready to serve.

Tip: For added flavor, instead of water, use vegetable stock or chicken broth.

A white ironstone bowl filled with homemade black bean soup. Next to the bowl is a cloth napkin & a soup spoon.

Soaking Methods

Quick Soak

Start by adding beans to a large pot & add 8 cups of cold water.
Bring to a raging boil & cook for 2 minutes. Set the dried black beans aside for 1 hour. This will help soften the beans and reduce their cooking time.
Drain & give a good rinse of the black beans.
The beans are now ready for use in your favorite recipe, like the black bean soup. Following these steps will ensure that your beans are rehydrated and ready for cooking.

Overnight Soak

Start by placing the dried beans in a large colander or sieve. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Choose a large bowl or pot that is big enough to accommodate the beans and allow them to expand as they soak.
Transfer the rinsed beans to the large pot.
Pour enough cold water over the beans to completely submerge them. Ensure that the water level is several inches above the beans to account for expansion.
Leave the beans to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This extended soaking period will help rehydrate and soften the beans, reducing their cooking time and making them easier to digest.
After the soaking time is complete, drain the soaking water from the beans and give them another quick rinse under cold water to remove any remaining residue.
The beans are now ready for use in your favorite recipe, like the black bean soup. Following these steps will ensure that your beans are rehydrated and ready for cooking.

The beans are now ready for use in your favorite recipe, like the black bean soup. Following these steps will ensure that your beans are rehydrated and ready for cooking.

Tip: You’ll need approximately 3 cups of water for every 1 cup of dried beans.

A white ironstone bowl filled with homemade black bean soup served over rice, topped with sour cream & shredded cheese. Next to the bowl is a blue & white striped cloth napkin.

Optional Add-ins:

Sauté Onions (1 medium onion, chopped) and Garlic. In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Note: Sauté the spices for about a minute to release their flavors.

Garnish with your favorite toppings

Tortilla Chips
Chopped Fresh Cilantro
Red Pepper Flakes
A Dollop of Sour Cream
Shredded Cheese
Green Chiles
Serve over Rice

Enjoy your homemade, best-ever black bean soup!

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste and add a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences.

Commonly Asked Questions for The Best Black Bean Soup

Here are some commonly asked questions related to making creamy black bean soup using canned beans and a slow cooker. These frequently asked questions should help you successfully make creamy black bean soup using canned beans and a slow cooker while addressing common concerns and uncertainties.

Can I use canned black beans for creamy black bean soup?

Yes, you can definitely use canned black beans to make creamy black bean soup. Canned beans are convenient and save time compared to using dried beans. Just be sure to drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to your soup.

How can I achieve a creamy texture in my black bean soup?

To achieve a creamy texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after it has cooked. This will help break down some of the beans and thicken the soup naturally. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk to achieve a creamier consistency.

Can I make creamy black bean soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make creamy black bean soup in a slow cooker. Simply follow your favorite black bean soup recipe and adjust the cooking time and settings accordingly. Slow cooking can enhance the flavors and tenderness of the beans.

How long should I cook black bean soup in a slow cooker using canned beans?

When using canned beans, cooking time in a slow cooker is generally shorter than with dried beans. You can cook your black bean soup on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours in a slow cooker, but you can adjust the time based on your specific recipe and desired consistency.

Should I still soak canned black beans before using them in soup?

No, there’s no need to soak canned black beans since they are already pre-cooked and hydrated during the canning process. You can simply drain and rinse them before adding them to your soup.

How can I make my canned black bean soup extra flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your canned black bean soup, consider adding ingredients like sautéed onions, garlic, various spices (such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder), and fresh herbs. You can also include vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn for added depth of flavor.

Can I freeze leftover black bean soup made with canned beans?

Yes, you can freeze leftover black bean soup for future consumption. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to leave some space for expansion. Frozen black bean soup can be stored for several months. When reheating, you may need to adjust the consistency with a bit of water or broth, as soups can thicken upon freezing.

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST BLACK BEAN SOUP

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST BLACK BEAN SOUP IS AN IDEAL RECIPE FOR ANY TIME OF YEAR. THIS COMFORTING AND FLAVORFUL HOMEMADE SOUP COMES TOGETHER EFFORTLESSLY USING SIMPLE PANTRY INGREDIENTS.

Ingredients

16 oz. Bag of dry black beans
8 cups cold water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large pot
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

Instructions

The first step is to Soak the Black Beans. Rinse the beans and place them in a large pot. Either use a quick soaking method overnight soak.
After the soaking period, drain & rinse the beans.
In a large pot, add the rinsed beans and add 8 cups of water.
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and onion powder.
Stir well to combine all the black beans & spices.
On medium-high heat, bring to a boil
Turn heat to simmering. continue to simmer the soup for an additional 1 1 1/2 hours to allow the flavors to blend. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and more cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.
Once the soup has reached your desired flavor and consistency, it's ready to serve.