This spicy black bean soup is smoky, hearty, and full of bold flavor. Chipotle peppers, cumin, tomatoes, and a splash of red wine vinegar balance the earthy beans, while a little bacon adds savory depth.
Ready in about 30 minutes, it makes an easy weeknight dinner. Blending a portion of the soup creates a rich texture while leaving plenty of whole beans in every bowl.
Prep: 10 min · Cook: 20 min · Total: 30 min
Cuisine: American · Course: Soup
Spicy Black Bean Soup Recipe Card
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large saucepan over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, until browned and the fat has rendered.
- Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and chipotle peppers. Cook for 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the red wine vinegar, black beans, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes so the flavors develop.
- Blend about 2 cups of the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot and stir well. Warm for 2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning. Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, scallions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Tips for the Best Black Bean Soup
- Rinse canned black beans well to remove excess sodium and starch.
- Start with one chipotle pepper for a milder soup, then add more to taste.
- Blend only part of the soup to keep a satisfying mix of creamy broth and whole beans.
- Add a squeeze of lime just before serving to brighten the smoky flavors.
Substitutions and Variations
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon, sauté the onion in one tablespoon of olive oil, and use vegetable broth. Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative. Corn, diced bell pepper, or cooked shredded chicken can also be added.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate cooled soup in a covered container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens. Freeze without the sour cream topping for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is this black bean soup?
With two chipotle peppers it has a noticeable medium heat. Use one pepper for a gentler flavor or add extra adobo sauce for more heat.
Can I make it without a blender?
Yes. Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon or potato masher to thicken the broth.
Can I use dried black beans?
Yes. Cook them until tender first, then use about 3 cups of drained cooked beans in place of the canned beans.
Prepared with AI assistance. Review ingredient amounts, cooking times, and food-safety guidance before cooking.
Featured image: AI-generated food photography.