Soup

Spicy Vegan Black Bean Soup – Freshly Ingredients

Name: Spicy Vegan Black Bean Soup – Freshly Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 medium red onion, diced; 3/4 cup water; 2 medium carrots, diced; 4 teaspoons ground cumin powder; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped; 1 clove garlic, finely minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable stock; Juice of half a lime; 1/3 1/2 1/2 to jalapeño pepper, finely chopped; 1 small tomato, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 red bell pepper, diced; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Charlotte Shapiro July 7, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 50 mins

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When I think of comfort food that warms the soul, spicy vegan black bean soup comes to mind. It’s versatile, hearty, and, best of all, easy to prepare. The beauty of this dish is that it pairs beautifully with various sides, creating a complete meal that will leave your guests raving. Think crusty bread, zesty quesadillas, or a vibrant salad bursting with color.

Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

What is Spicy Vegan Black Bean Soup?

Spicy vegan black bean soup is a warming blend of black beans, spices, and vegetables. Each ingredient contributes layers of flavor and nutrition. It’s not merely a soup to me; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something wonderful.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an eager beginner, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

What Does It Taste Like?

The first spoonful is a delightful medley of spices, balanced by the creaminess of black beans. Imagine a smooth, rich texture punctuated by spice from jalapeños and the earthiness of cumin.

It warms you from the inside out. The tang of lime adds brightness, while fresh cilantro lends that vibrant hit that brings the whole dish alive.

Why This Recipe Works

There are several compelling reasons to love this spicy vegan black bean soup.
First, it’s loaded with nutrients. Black beans are high in protein and fiber, which promotes feeling full and satisfied.
Second, it’s incredibly adaptable. You can easily adjust the spice level or tweak the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry.
Third, it’s budget-friendly. Many of the ingredients are pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
Lastly, it’s a time-saver! It’s a one-pot meal that comes together quickly and provides leftovers for easy meals later.

Ingredients for Spicy Vegan Black Bean Soup

Gather these ingredients to embark on your soup journey:

1 medium red onion, diced
3/4 cup water (or 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, if preferred)
2 medium carrots, diced
1 (15-ounce) can organic sweet corn, drained and rinsed
4 teaspoons ground cumin powder
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
3 (15-ounce) cans organic black beans, drained and rinsed
1 clove garlic, finely minced
4 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
Juice of half a lime
1/3 to 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (optional, depending on spice preference)
1 small tomato, finely chopped
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 red bell pepper, diced
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Optional toppings: sliced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, sliced jalapeño, fresh cilantro, dairy-free shredded cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by dicing the red onion, carrots, and red bell pepper. Mince the garlic and chop the tomato and cilantro. This prep work makes the cooking process smooth.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the water (or oil) over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Then toss in the garlic, bell pepper, and carrots. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.

Step 3: Add Spices

Incorporate the cumin powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices, and let them cook for another minute to release their flavors.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Stock

Next, add the sweet corn, drained black beans, vegetable stock, and chopped tomato into the pot. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Once the soup reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low. Let it cook gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

To finish it off, squeeze in the lime juice and stir in the fresh cilantro. Taste, and add sea salt and black pepper to your liking. If you like it spicier, now is the time to add more jalapeño.

Notes

Here are some tips to get the most out of your soup:

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables elevate the flavor significantly.
Adjust spice levels: Start with a little jalapeño and add more to your taste.
Blend for a creamy version: For a creamy texture, blend part of the soup after cooking and return it to the pot.
Make it a meal: Pair with tortillas or rice to make it heartier.
Refrigerate overnight: This allows the flavors to deepen and improves the taste.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 220
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 14g
Total Fat: 1g
Sodium: 350mg (adjust depending on stock used)

How to Store the Leftovers?

Let the soup cool to room temperature. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave space in the container for expansion!

Sides for Spicy Vegan Black Bean Soup

Pairing can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful options:

Fresh Cornbread: The slightly sweet, buttery flavor complements the spiciness of the soup.
Zesty Lime Rice: Cook rice with lime zest and juice. It adds a bright note and balances the richness of the soup.
Avocado Toast: Spread smashed avocado on toasted bread sprinkled with salt and pepper for a creamy side.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a citrus dressing refreshes the palate and adds crunch.

All these sides enhance the black bean soup and round out your meal nicely.

Alternative Ingredient Choices

Not everything may be in your pantry. Here are alternatives to consider:

Beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans work well if you don’t have black beans.
Vegetable Stock: Water with bouillon cubes is a fast alternative if stock is lacking.
Spices: If you don’t have chili powder, try using paprika with a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Bell Pepper Variations: Any colored bell pepper works, or you could even use zucchini for a change.

Conclusion

Spicy vegan black bean soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to nourish your body and soul with every comforting spoonful. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it brings people together, whether around a dinner table or at a potluck. So, grab your ingredients and let’s make something delicious that celebrates healthy eating! Share your creation with friends and family, and don’t forget to enjoy every last drop. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Spicy Vegan Black Bean Soup – Freshly Ingredients

Author: Charlotte Shapiro Cuisine: American Courses: Soup

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 35 mins Total Time 50 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 220

Description

Let's dive into this culinary adventure!