Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Bowl Recipes
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup, packed with flavor and nutrients.
This smoky black bean sausage soup is a delightful blend of spices and textures, making it an ideal dish for a cozy evening at home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and smoky flavor that warms the soul
- Nutritious black beans packed with protein and fiber
- Versatile soup that can be enjoyed any time of the year
A Flavorful Journey
The Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup is more than just a meal; it's a delightful experience for your taste buds. The combination of spices like smoked paprika and cumin elevates the dish, giving it a warm and comforting depth. Each spoonful transports you to a cozy kitchen, where the aroma of simmering vegetables and sausage fills the air. This soup is perfect for cold evenings or any time you crave something hearty and fulfilling.
Not only does this soup boast an incredible flavor profile, but it also celebrates the richness of black beans. Known for their health benefits, black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. They help keep you full longer, making this soup a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, their creamy texture pairs beautifully with the smoky notes, creating a wonderful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
A Versatile Dish
One of the best features of the Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking for a meat-free option, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein. The soup will still pack a flavorful punch, making it a wonderful choice for vegetarians and vegans alike.
Additionally, this soup can be enjoyed year-round. In the colder months, it serves as a warming comfort food, while in warmer weather, it can be served alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. You can even refrigerate or freeze leftovers, making it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights. No matter when you serve it, this soup is bound to impress.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cooked sausage, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Mix and match your favorite ingredients to make this soup your own!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, black beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the sausage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
This hearty soup is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner!
Storage Tips
To store your Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating the soup is straightforward. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much during storage. Gently warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a comfortable temperature. This way, you can savor the rich flavors of the soup just as they were when first made.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. A side of avocado slices or a simple green salad can add a refreshing touch, balancing the rich flavors of the soup. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
If you're looking to elevate your Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup even further, try topping it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Adding a squeeze of lime juice can also brighten up the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the smoky notes beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage or use a plant-based sausage alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Smoky Black Bean Sausage Soup, packed with flavor and nutrients.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Bowl Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cooked sausage, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, black beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the sausage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 41g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 15g