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Steaming purple black bean soup garnished with cilantro and lime.

Purple Black Bean Soup

Purple black bean soup is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that combines the earthy richness of black beans with the vibrant hues and health benefits of purple vegetables. This hearty soup is perfect for a comforting meal that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Soaking Time 8 hours
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Latin American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Immersion Blender

Ingredients
  

Core Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried black beans or 4 cups canned black beans
  • 1 medium red cabbage chopped
  • 2 medium purple carrots chopped
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Garnishes

  • fresh cilantro chopped
  • avocado slices
  • lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • If using dried black beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and slightly golden.
  • Add the chopped red cabbage and purple carrots, stirring until they begin to soften.
  • Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the spices' aromas.
  • Add the soaked black beans (or canned beans) and diced tomatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
  • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
  • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and lime wedges.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of coconut milk or cream before serving. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Keyword Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegan