Print

Easy, Creamy, and Flavor-Packed Black Bean Soup (Vegan & Weeknight Ready)

Close-up of thick, dark brown pureed black bean soup served in a white bowl on a wooden table.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This hearty black bean soup recipe delivers rich, smoky flavor and a naturally creamy texture. It is simple to prepare, making it perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep. This recipe is naturally vegan and packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained (or 3 cups cooked beans)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano to the pot. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the bay leaf. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Carefully transfer about half of the soup mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot). Blend until smooth and creamy.
  6. Return the blended portion to the pot with the remaining soup. Stir well. If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Stir in the salt, pepper, and fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a richer, smoky flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones.
  • To achieve a very creamy texture without dairy, blend a slightly larger portion of the soup until completely smooth.
  • This soup freezes well. Cool completely before storing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Recommended toppings include avocado slices, fresh cilantro, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt (if not vegan), or a squeeze of fresh lime.

Nutrition