Ingredients

1 pound dried black beans
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large yellow onion , finely chopped
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons cumin seeds
1 red bell pepper , diced
1 green bell pepper , diced
8 cloves garlic , minced
2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano , crushed between your fingers
2 bay leaves
6 cups vegetable stock
2 tablespoons dark rum ( optional )
2 cups water
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup sliced hard-boiled eggs ( optional )
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
Smokey Vegetarian Cuban Black Bean Soup is a rich and flavorful soup that is inspired by the Cuban culture, where black beans are a staple food. This wholesome dish is ideal for vegetarians and vegans as it contains no meat or dairy products. The subtle smokey flavor combined with Mexican oregano complements the sweetness of bell peppers, offering a unique taste that is hard to beat. This nutritious soup is incredibly filling, making it perfect for cold winter days. You can enjoy it on its own, with rice, or with bread to make it a more substantial meal.

Instructions

1.Rinse black beans in a colander under cold running water. Look through beans and remove any debris. Drain well and transfer to a pot.
2.Add enough cold water to cover the beans by at least 2 inches. Soak the beans overnight, then drain the water and rinse them well under running tap water.
3.In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
4.Add smoked paprika, cumin seeds, diced red bell pepper, diced green bell pepper, minced garlic, dried Mexican oregano, and bay leaves.
5.Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant while stirring occasionally.
6.Add soaked and rinsed black beans, vegetable stock, water, dark rum (optional), and salt. Stir well to combine.
7.Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the soup simmer gently, partially covered, until the beans become very tender and the soup has thickened, about 2 to 2 and a half hours.
8.Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Use an immersion blender to blend a part of soup until it reaches the perfect consistency for your preference, about halfway or all of it.
9.Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Soup is ready to be served in bowls, topped with hard-boiled eggs and red onion.

PROS

The soup is easy to make and full of hearty flavors.
Moreover, it’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly since it contains no meat and dairy products.

The ideal option for cold, wintery days to enjoy homely comfort, this soup is rich in fiber, potassium, and protein.

Provides an excellent source of fiber and plant-based protein, which helps to keep you full and satisfied for longer periods.

CONS

It contains a relatively high amount of sodium, especially if you add extra salt, which can affect individuals who are advised to limit their sodium intake.

It takes a long time to prepare because the beans must be soaked overnight and boiled for several hours, which may be a problem for people who are short on time.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The Smokey Vegetarian Cuban Black Bean Soup is a delicious recipe that is healthy for you. For starters, black beans are high in fiber, which aids digestion and lowers cholesterol levels.
The soup also contains red and green bell peppers, which are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, providing antioxidant benefits that boost immunity.
Moreover, the use of smoked paprika and garlic adds an aromatic flavor to the soup, which can help to reduce inflammation.

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