Easy Black Bean Soup with Smoky Bacon: A Comfort Food Classic

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that brings warmth and comfort right to your table? This hearty black bean soup with Applewood-Smoked Bacon is the perfect recipe to warm your soul and delight your taste buds. Rich in flavor and loaded with nutritious ingredients, this soup is an excellent choice for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious dish with Chef Mark Sandoval, combining the smoky goodness of bacon with the robust flavors of black beans and spices.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this black bean soup. First and foremost, it boasts a rich and smoky flavor, thanks to the applewood smoked bacon, which infuses the soup with a delightful aroma.

Black Bean Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned home cooks. This versatile soup allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings and pairings. It’s packed with nutrients, including protein and fiber, making it as healthy as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Black Bean Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each ingredient contributes to the rich flavor and texture of the soup.

Ingredient	Description
Applewood Smoked Bacon	Adds a smoky, savory flavor and crispy texture.
Mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery)	A trio of diced vegetables that provides a flavor base.
Garlic	Enhances the dish with a fragrant aroma and depth.
Black Beans	The main ingredient, offering protein, fiber, and texture.
Cumin	Toasted and ground for a warm, earthy flavor.
Oregano and Thyme	Herbs that add a subtle yet complex flavor profile.
Blended Oil (75% canola, 25% EVOO)	Used for sautéing, combining a neutral base with the rich flavor of extra virgin olive oil.
Chicken or Vegetable Stock	Forms the soup base, adding richness and depth.
Sour Cream	A creamy garnish that balances the soup’s flavors.
Cilantro	Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before starting, gather all the kitchen tools you’ll need. These tools help ensure a smooth cooking process.

Tool	Description
Mixing Bowl	For preparing and organizing ingredients.
Chef Knife	Essential for chopping and dicing vegetables and bacon.
Large Pot	Used to cook and simmer the soup.
Cutting Board	Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
Wooden Spatula	Ideal for stirring the soup without scratching the pot.
Sauté Pan	Needed for toasting the cumin seeds.
Spice Grinder	For grinding toasted cumin seeds to release their full flavor.
Kitchen Towels	Handy for handling hot pots and keeping the workspace tidy.

Step-By-Step Recipe Instructions

Cooking this Black Bean Soup is straightforward. Each step builds flavor and texture to create a comforting bowl of goodness. Before you begin, prepare all your ingredients by chopping, dicing, and measuring everything in advance. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Sauté the Bacon:

• Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a drizzle of blended Oil.
• Once the Oil is hot, add the diced bacon and sauté until it becomes crispy and releases its smoky aroma. This step should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Mirepoix and Garlic:

• Next, add the mirepoix (onion, carrot, and celery) to the pot.
• Sauté these vegetables until they become tender and the onions turn translucent, typically taking another 5-7 minutes.
• Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until it’s fragrant, enhancing the soup’s aromatic base.

Introduce Black Beans and Spices:

• Now, it’s time to add the canned black beans, but make sure to drain and rinse them first.
• Stir them into the pot, followed by the spices: oregano and thyme. These spices will elevate the soup’s flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.

Simmer and Blend Flavors:

• Pour your chicken or vegetable stock and let the soup simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive and delightful taste.

Toast and Grind Cumin Seeds:

• While the soup simmers, toast cumin seeds in a sauté pan over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
• Once they cool, grind them in a spice grinder and add 2 tablespoons to the pot. This step enhances the cumin flavor, making it more robust and aromatic.

Garnish and Serve:

• Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
• Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Tips, Tricks, and Storage Options

Every great recipe has its secrets, and this soup is no exception. Here are some tips to make your cooking experience even better:

• Tip: Use low-sodium stock to control the salt content of your soup. This allows you to adjust the seasoning as needed without worrying about it becoming too salty.

• Trick: If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup before adding the garnishes. This creates a creamy texture while still retaining some chunks for variety.

• Storage Options: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions, Variations, and Pairings

Black Bean Soup is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides to create a more filling meal. Consider serving it with a slice of crusty bread, tortilla chips, or even over a bed of rice for a hearty and satisfying dish.

This soup is perfect for experimenting with different flavors and textures. For instance:

• Variations: To introduce a different flavor profile, add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or jalapenos. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add smoked paprika to maintain a smoky flavor.

• Pairings: For a more substantial meal, complement this soup with a fresh avocado salad or a side of rice. You could also pair it with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious, hearty Black Bean Soup perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and rich in flavor and nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this soup will bring joy and comfort to your kitchen.

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get cooking! Try this Black Bean Soup recipe today and let the delightful aromas fill your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us on social media – we’d love to see how you made this recipe your own!

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to follow us on social media and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.

Happy cooking!

Cem

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ	Answer
Can I make this soup vegetarian?	Yes, omit the bacon and use vegetable stock. Add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
How do I store leftover soup?	You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?	Absolutely! Just soak and cook the dried beans beforehand to ensure they are tender.
What are some other garnish options?	For added zest, garnish with shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
How do I adjust the spiciness?	Add diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat, or omit them for a milder soup.
Is it possible to make the soup thicker?	Yes, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.
Can I use a different type of bacon?	You can use turkey bacon or pancetta for a different flavor profile.
What can I substitute for cumin?	Ground coriander or chili powder can be used as a substitute for cumin.
Can I make this soup in advance?	Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat and serve!

Tags: black bean soup