Description
This Purple Black Bean Soup is a stunning, nutrient-dense dish packed with antioxidants, fiber, and plant-based protein. Featuring the deep hues of anthocyanin-rich black beans and red cabbage, this soup is both visually appealing and incredibly flavorful. With a creamy yet hearty texture, smoky spices, and a bright hint of lime, it’s perfect for a wholesome meal any time of the week. Naturally gluten-free, vegan, high in protein, and low in calories, this soup is as delicious as it is healthy. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving it fresh, this soup is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed (or 1½ cups dried black beans, soaked overnight)
- ½ small red cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1 purple onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and coarsely chopped (plus one for garnish, if desired)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, vegan sour cream, crunchy pumpkin seeds, or hot sauce
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped purple onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add shredded red cabbage and chopped red bell pepper.
- Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their natural juices.
- Add Seasonings and Beans:
- Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add black beans and mix well, ensuring the spices coat all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and let cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend for Texture:
- Using an immersion blender, pulse a few times to partially puree the soup while keeping some chunks for a hearty texture.
- If using a traditional blender, transfer half the soup, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Finish with Lime Juice:
- Stir in the juice of one lime to brighten the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve & Garnish:
- Ladle soup into bowls.
- Garnish with slices of avocado, fresh cilantro, vegan sour cream, or a sprinkle of crunchy pumpkin seeds.
- Serve warm and enjoy!!
Notes
- Make It Creamier: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for extra richness.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes for some heat.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to adjust consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: purple black bean soup, antioxidant-rich soup, vegan soup, healthy black bean recipe