Delicious and Nutritious Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

What Is Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe?

Purple black bean soup in a bowl

At its core, the purple black bean soup recipe is a fusion of healthy ingredients like black beans, purple cabbage, and sometimes purple sweet potatoes. These components are not only rich in fiber but also packed with antioxidants, making this dish an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate healthier options into their diet. The recipe typically includes a mix of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a flavorful broth to elevate the dish’s taste profile while keeping it simple and wholesome.

One of the best features of the purple black bean soup recipe is its versatility. You can adapt the recipe to suit various dietary preferences, whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or enjoy adding proteins like chicken or sausage. It’s a dish that appeals to everyone due to its customizable nature and ease of preparation.

This vibrant soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Perfect for cozy evenings or as a meal prep option, the purple black bean soup recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a nourishing and aesthetically pleasing dish.

Ingredients for Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients for purple black bean soup

Main Ingredients

  • Black beans (2 cups, cooked or canned) – Packed with protein and fiber, these are the base of the recipe.
  • Purple cabbage (1 small head, chopped) – Adds the signature vibrant hue and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • Purple sweet potatoes (1-2 medium, diced) – Enhances the texture and adds a touch of natural sweetness.
  • Vegetable broth (4 cups) – Provides a flavorful base for the soup. If you want to explore more about making a flavorful stock, check outChicken Noodle Soup Stock for the Soul“, which offers great tips for creating a hearty broth.
  • Onion (1 medium, finely chopped) – A key aromatic that builds the foundation of flavor.
  • Garlic cloves (3-4, minced) – Adds depth and enhances the taste of the soup.

Spices and Seasonings

  • Ground cumin (1 tsp) – Delivers an earthy, warm undertone.
  • Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a smoky flavor and a touch of color.
  • Chili powder (1/2 tsp, optional) – For a hint of heat.
  • Salt and black pepper – To taste.

Additional Ingredients

  • Olive oil (2 tbsp) – For sautéing vegetables.
  • Fresh cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped) – For garnishing and a burst of freshness.
  • Lime juice (1 tbsp) – Enhances the flavors with a tangy touch.
  • Avocado slices (optional) – A creamy topping for added texture.

These ingredients are not only easy to find but also allow you to create a vibrant and satisfying purple black bean soup recipe. Whether you follow this list exactly or tweak it to suit your preferences, the result will be a visually stunning and flavorful meal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

Cooking purple black bean soup

Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Wash and chop the purple cabbage, purple sweet potatoes, and onion. Mince the garlic cloves.
  • Rinse and drain the black beans if using canned ones.
  • Measure out the spices: cumin, paprika, and chili powder.

Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.

Add Vegetables

  • Add the diced purple sweet potatoes and chopped purple cabbage to the pot.
  • Stir well to coat the vegetables in the oil and aromatics.

Incorporate Spices

  • Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, and optional chili powder over the vegetables.
  • Stir the mixture to evenly distribute the spices, letting them toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.

Add Broth and Simmer

  • Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged.
  • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Add Black Beans

  • Once the vegetables are cooked, add the black beans to the pot.
  • Stir well and let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Blend (Optional)

  • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup directly in the pot.
  • Alternatively, transfer 1-2 cups of the soup to a blender, puree it, and return it to the pot.

Season and Garnish

  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash of lime juice for brightness.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional toppings like avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.

This step-by-step approach ensures your purple black bean soup recipe is both easy to follow and yields a delicious, visually stunning meal every time.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

To elevate the flavor and presentation of your purple black bean soup recipe, consider these expert tips and tricks. These suggestions will ensure your soup stands out both in taste and visual appeal.

1. Maximize Flavor with Roasting

  • Roast the purple sweet potatoes before adding them to the soup for a caramelized flavor. Toss them with a little olive oil and roast at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes.

2. Balance the Acidity

  • If the soup tastes too earthy, add a touch of lime juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors.

3. Experiment with Toppings

  • Enhance the texture and flavor by adding:
    • Crumbled tortilla chips for crunch.
    • Toasted pumpkin seeds for a nutty element.
    • Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.

4. Control the Texture

  • For a chunkier soup, mash some of the black beans with the back of a spoon instead of blending the soup.
  • For a smoother, velvety texture, blend the entire batch.

5. Spice It Up

  • If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle the soup with spicy chili oil before serving.

6. Make It Heartier

  • Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or celery to boost the nutrition.
  • Add cooked quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.

Storing and Reheating Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

Properly storing and reheating the purple black bean soup recipe ensures it retains its rich flavors and vibrant colors for future meals. With these simple steps, you can enjoy this dish even days after preparing it.

Storing the Soup

  1. Cool Completely: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess or bacterial growth.
  2. Choose Airtight Containers: Use airtight glass or BPA-free plastic containers to keep the soup fresh and avoid odor absorption in the fridge.
  3. Refrigerate: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
  4. Freeze for Long-Term Storage: If you want to keep it longer, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating the Soup

  1. On the Stove: Place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency if it has thickened during storage.
  2. In the Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

With these tips, your purple black bean soup recipe will taste just as fresh and flavorful as the day it was made.

Conclusion: Why You Will Love Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

The purple black bean soup recipe is a dish that combines bold flavors, vibrant colors, and exceptional nutritional value, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re seeking a comforting dinner on a chilly evening or a visually striking dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on every front.

What truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. With simple, adaptable ingredients like black beans, purple vegetables, and aromatic spices, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. The creamy texture, achieved through optional blending, adds a luxurious touch without the need for heavy cream or excessive calories.

Beyond its taste, this soup is packed with health benefits. Black beans are a powerhouse of protein and fiber, while purple vegetables like cabbage and sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants that support overall well-being. This makes the purple black bean soup recipe not just a flavorful choice but a nourishing one as well.

Its ease of preparation and ability to store well for leftovers make it a convenient option for busy lifestyles. Once you try it, you’ll love how it combines simplicity, beauty, and taste in one bowl. This recipe is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

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Purple black bean soup in a bowl

Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe


  • Author: Chloe
  • Total Time: 45 min
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A vibrant and hearty purple black bean soup recipe that combines black beans, purple vegetables, and aromatic spices for a nutritious and delicious meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked or canned black beans
  • 1 small head of purple cabbage, chopped
  • 12 medium purple sweet potatoes, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)
  • Avocado slices (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
  • Add the purple cabbage and sweet potatoes, stirring to coat with the oil and aromatics.
  • Sprinkle cumin, paprika, and chili powder over the vegetables. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  • Stir in the black beans and simmer for another 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  • Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture, if desired, then return it to the pot.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste. Serve hot with fresh cilantro and optional toppings.

Notes

  • For a spicier soup, add diced jalapeños or more chili powder.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 30 min
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stove Cooking

Nutrition

  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 8g

Keywords: purple black bean soup recipe, healthy vegan soup, purple vegetable soup

FAQ: Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

1. Can I use canned black beans instead of dried ones?

Yes, canned black beans are a great option for this purple black bean soup recipe. Simply rinse and drain them before adding to the soup. They save time and deliver the same delicious results as dried beans.

2. What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?

You can customize the recipe by including carrots, celery, or even zucchini for additional texture and nutrients. However, the purple vegetables like cabbage and sweet potatoes are essential for the vibrant color and signature taste.

3. Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely! This purple black bean soup recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just ensure the vegetable broth and any additional toppings, like sour cream or croutons, align with your dietary preferences.

4. How can I make the soup spicier?

To add more heat, include extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level to suit your preference.

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