How to Make the Best Purple Black Bean Soup: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe: A Hearty Bowl of Comfort
When you’re craving something warm and satisfying, purple black bean soup is the perfect answer. This isn’t your typical black bean soup—oh no, this one has personality. With deep, earthy flavors, a vibrant purple hue, and a kick of smoky chipotle, it’s a dish that’s just as comforting as it is bold. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for the family or just looking for an easy and healthy meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
This black bean soup recipe is not only flavorful but also easy to make, hearty, and, of course, vegetarian-friendly! Let’s dive into the details so you can get this warm bowl of goodness on your table in no time.
Table of Contents
- Why This Soup Is So Special
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Make Purple Black Bean Soup
- Cooking Tips & Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Why It’s a Family Favorite
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why This Soup Is So Special
This isn’t just another black bean soup recipe—this is purple black bean soup. It’s packed with flavor and has a depth that makes each spoonful feel like a celebration.
Versatile: Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or a milder soup, you can adjust the amount of chipotles to fit your preference. Add some quinoa or cooked black beans for a more filling option.
Rich in Flavor: The combination of chipotles in adobo, garlic, and cumin brings out a smoky, spicy profile that blends perfectly with the earthiness of the black beans.
Quick & Easy: You don’t need hours to make this soup. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and quick dinner that’s easy to make.
Vegetarian and Hearty: This soup is loaded with protein from the canned black beans and can be made heartier by adding quinoa or other beans. It’s a great option for vegetarians and anyone looking for a satisfying meal without meat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is simple, with ingredients that you can easily find in your kitchen or at your local grocery store. Here’s a breakdown:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Canned black beans | 2 cans (15 oz each) | The base of the soup, providing rich flavor and protein. |
| Veggie broth | 4 cups | Adds a savory base that complements the beans. |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing the veggies and creating a rich base. |
| Red onion | 1 medium, chopped | Adds sweetness and depth to the soup. |
| Bell peppers (red or green) | 1, chopped | Gives a slight crunch and a mild, sweet flavor. |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Essential for that savory aroma and taste. |
| Chipotles in adobo | 1-2 peppers, chopped | Provides a smoky heat that makes the soup extra flavorful. |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Adds earthy warmth to the dish. |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Enhances the smokiness and color of the soup. |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon | Adds a touch of herbaceous flavor. |
| Lime juice | 1-2 limes, freshly squeezed | A zesty kick that balances the richness of the soup. |
| Cooked quinoa (optional) | 1 cup | A great addition for extra protein and heartiness. |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | For seasoning and balancing the flavors. |
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Flavor Explosion: Smoky chipotles, creamy beans, and tangy lime come together in every spoonful.
- Easy to Make: No complicated steps, just simple ingredients doing their thing.
- Versatile: Perfect for vegetarians or meat-lovers—just switch the broth and toppings to suit your vibe.
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How to Make Purple Black Bean Soup
Let’s break it down step by step—this recipe is a breeze to make!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Now it’s time to bring in the spices! Add the chipotles in adobo, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the veggies.
Step 3: Add the Beans & Broth
Next, pour in the veggie broth and add the canned black beans (don’t forget to drain most of the liquid). Stir well to combine and bring everything to a simmer. If you’re adding quinoa, toss it in now. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, so the flavors can meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
Once the soup has simmered, take an immersion blender and blend part of the soup right in the pot to create a creamy texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully ladle out some of the soup, blend it in a regular blender, and then return it to the pot. This step is totally optional—if you like a chunkier soup, skip it!
Step 5: Finish With Lime & Adjust Seasoning
Finally, squeeze in the lime juice and give the soup a taste. Add salt and pepper as needed. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more chipotles or even a dash of hot sauce.
Cooking Tips & Variations
Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy soup, add a splash of coconut milk or a couple of tablespoons of sour cream when serving.
Vegan Option: The recipe as written is already vegetarian, but if you want to make it fully vegan, just ensure that your veggie broth is free of any animal products.
Make It Spicier: If you love spicy food, increase the amount of chipotles in adobo or add a chopped jalapeño.
Quinoa for Extra Protein: Adding cooked quinoa will not only make the soup more filling but also give it a lovely texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This soup is delicious on its own, but if you want to elevate it even more, here are a few ideas:
Side Salad: Pair this soup with a simple side salad to balance the richness. Try a fresh mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or a few slices of creamy avocado on top. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime add brightness and freshness.
Bread & Chips: Serve the soup with warm tortillas, crispy tortilla chips, or a thick slice of rustic bread for dipping.
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This soup isn’t just food—it’s a mood. It’s that perfect balance of comfort and zing. The kind of dish that gets everyone around the table, asking for seconds.
And let’s not forget, it’s vegetarian, packed with protein, and an absolute superstar in the “easy to make” category. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of black bean soup or trying it for the first time, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, like most soups, this one tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had more time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with a side of rice, cornbread, or crispy tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or some avocado slices to complete the meal.
Can I make this soup with dried beans?
Yes, if you prefer to use dried beans instead of canned black beans, make sure to cook them first. You’ll need about 1 ½ cups of dried black beans for this recipe. Soak them overnight and cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the soup.
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about a bowl of purple black bean soup—it’s hearty, flavorful, and the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or need a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe hits all the right notes. And the best part? It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a family favorite.
So, if you’re looking for something healthy, comforting, and bursting with flavor, give this soup a try! Don’t forget to play around with the ingredients and make it your own. And if you loved this recipe, there’s plenty more where that came from! I’ve got a whole collection of delicious dishes that will make your taste buds dance. Be sure to explore more recipes right here on the blog, where you’ll find everything from spicy black bean soup to hearty veggie chili—there’s something for everyone.
Happy cooking!
