Transform humble beans into a robust, soul-warming Mexican soup that’s packed with authentic flavors and nourishing ingredients. This versatile soup combines creamy black beans with smoky chipotle, fresh vegetables, and traditional Mexican spices for a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
This Mexican bean soup strikes the perfect balance between authentic flavor and everyday convenience. It’s economical, protein-rich, and can be made in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For 6-8 servings:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (preferably Mexican)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Mexican crema or sour cream
- Lime wedges
- Tortilla strips
- Shredded Mexican cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat
- Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (5-7 minutes)
- Add garlic and bell pepper, cook for 2 minutes
- Build the Flavors
- Add cumin, chili powder, and oregano
- Cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Add chopped chipotle and tomatoes
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes break down
- Add Beans and Broth
- Add black beans and broth
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer
- Cook for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender
- Final Touches
- Season with salt and pepper
- Optional: partially blend for a creamier texture
- Adjust thickness with additional broth if needed
- Serve
- Ladle into bowls
- Add desired garnishes
- Serve with lime wedges
Pro Tips for Authentic Results
- Bean Selection
- Use quality black beans for the best results
- If using dried beans, soak overnight and cook separately
- Don’t skip rinsing canned beans to remove excess sodium
- Spice Balance
- Toast spices in oil for enhanced flavor
- Adjust Chipotle amount based on heat preference
- Use Mexican oregano if possible for an authentic taste
- Texture Options
- Leave soup chunky for a rustic style
- Blend partially for creamy texture
- Mash some beans against the pot side for natural thickening
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Yes! Soak 1 cup dried black beans overnight, then cook until tender before adding to the soup. This takes longer but can enhance flavor and reduce sodium.
Q: How can I make this soup spicier?
A: Add more chipotle peppers, use fresh jalapeños, or include a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before freezing, and omit garnishes until serving.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Q: How do I make this soup thicker?
A: Mash some beans against the pot side, blend a portion of the soup, or simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid. You can also add a cornmeal slurry.
Q: What can I substitute for chipotle peppers?
A: Use smoked paprika plus cayenne pepper, or any dried chile powder with a dash of liquid smoke.
Variations
- Vegetarian/Vegan
- Use vegetable broth
- Skip cream garnish or use coconut cream
- Add extra vegetables like corn or zucchini
- Protein-Packed
- Add shredded chicken or ground beef
- Include chorizo for extra flavor
- Top with a poached egg
- Mixed Bean
- Combine black beans with pinto or kidney beans
- Add chickpeas for texture variety
- Use different bean combinations each time
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days in airtight container
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
- Add fresh garnishes after reheating
- Thin with broth if needed when reheating
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep vegetables in advance
- Cook beans from dried ahead of time
- Store garnishes separately
- Make a double batch for freezing
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm corn tortillas
- Accompany with Mexican rice
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Offer a variety of garnishes for customization
Nutritional Benefits
This soup is not just delicious but also nutritious:
- High in fiber and protein
- Rich in antioxidants
- Good source of vitamins and minerals
- Heart-healthy ingredients
- Can be made low-sodium
Remember, Mexican bean soup is highly adaptable – feel free to adjust seasonings and ingredients to your taste. The key is building layers of flavor through proper sautéing and spice addition. Whether you’re looking for a meatless Monday option or a satisfying weekend meal, this soup delivers authentic Mexican flavors in every spoonful. ¡Buen provecho!