- **Black Beans**: High in protein and fiber, perfect for a hearty soup.
- **Spanish Chorizo Sausage**: Adds a smoky flavor and richness to the dish (optional but highly recommended).
- **Onions**: A key ingredient that helps in building the base of the soup, rich in sulfur compounds beneficial for health.
- **Garlic Cloves**: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungent aroma; use about 3 cloves per cup of broth.
- **Tomatoes**: Fresh or canned tomatoes provide natural sweetness and acidity. Use a can of crushed tomatoes for added depth.
- **Bell Peppers**: Adds color and mild sweetness, choose red or green for vibrant flavors.
- **Celery Stalks**: Provides a subtle flavor with its high nutrient content.
- **Carrots**: Offers a sweet and earthy taste; add them to balance the other flavors in the soup.
- **Bay Leaves**: A classic spice that adds depth without overpowering other ingredients.
- **Cumin Seeds**: For a warm, earthy flavor typical of Spanish cuisine; use about 1 teaspoon per cup of beans.
- **Oregano or Thyme**: Dried herbs for a Mediterranean twist, add according to taste.
- **Salt and Pepper**: To season the soup properly, adjust quantities based on personal preference.
- **Vegetable Broth**: The base of your soup; use low-sodium broth if needed.
- **Lemon Juice (optional)**: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors without adding extra calories.
**Keywords for SEO:** black bean soup, Spanish style beans and grains, chorizo sausage, onions, garlic, tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, bay leaves, cumin seeds, oregano, thyme, vegetable broth, seasoning.
Steps
### Black Bean Soup: Spanish-Style Beans and Grains
**Introduction**
Black bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich flavors of black beans with various grains, vegetables, and spices. This recipe offers a twist on traditional Spanish cuisine by incorporating bold ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for those chilly evenings or as a comforting meal throughout the year.
### Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black beans
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup quinoa (rinsed and drained)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
### Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### **Step 1: Soak the Black Beans**
1. Rinse the black beans under cold water.
2. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with enough water to submerge them by about an inch.
3. Let soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.
#### **Step 2: Prepare Vegetables**
1. Finely chop the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and zucchini.
2. Set aside until ready to use.
#### **Step 3: Cook the Beans**
1. Drain the soaked beans and rinse them again under cold water.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
4. Add the garlic, bell peppers, zucchini, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 5 minutes.
#### **Step 4: Add Vegetables and Broth**
1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juice), corn kernels, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and remaining salt.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
#### **Step 5: Simmer the Soup**
1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
2. Add the quinoa and black beans.
3. Cover and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly.
#### **Step 6: Seasoning**
1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as desired.
2. Cook for a few more minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
#### **Step 7: Serve**
1. Ladle the black bean soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
### Tips and Variations
- For an extra layer of flavor, sauté diced bacon or chorizo at the beginning along with the onions.
- Consider adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or green beans for variety.
- Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips to enjoy a satisfying meal.
### SEO-Friendly Keywords and Phrases
- Spanish-style black bean soup recipe
- Hearty black bean soup
- Beans and grains in one pot
- Comfort food recipes
- Dried black beans soaked overnight
By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious and comforting Spanish-style black bean soup that is both nutritious and flavorful. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures of this versatile dish!