Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup is a robust, flavorful dish that is both comforting and incredibly satisfying. This soup is perfect for those looking for a hearty, nutritious meal with minimal effort. Black beans are simmered in the slow cooker with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a medley of spices, transforming into a thick, rich soup that’s infused with a deep, smoky flavor.
Recipe: Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried black beans, rinsed and sorted (no need to soak)
- 2 quarts vegetable broth or water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, shredded cheese, lime wedges
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Place the rinsed black beans, vegetable broth, chopped onion, green and red bell peppers, celery, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and bay leaf in the bowl of a slow cooker.
- Cook the Soup:
- Cover and cook on high for 6-7 hours, or on low for 8-10 hours, until the beans are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Season the Soup:
- Once the beans are soft and the soup is hearty, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup partially or completely, depending on your desired texture (you can also transfer some of the soup to a blender to puree and then return it to the pot).
- Adjust Consistency and Seasoning:
- If the soup is too thick, add additional broth or water to reach your preferred consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime.
This Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup is not only a fuss-free meal but also wonderfully adaptable to various tastes and dietary preferences. It’s a warm, inviting dish that is ideal for any day of the week, especially during colder months. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup promises to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds with minimal effort.
