Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup: A Hearty Comfort Food
This Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup stands out as a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or entertaining friends and family. Rich in flavor and loaded with nutritious ingredients, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Typically, I like to serve it alongside a platter of quesadillas, chicken nachos, homemade salsa, and creamy guacamole, complemented by crunchy tortilla chips that add an exciting texture to the meal. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Ole!!
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (1 Cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 174.5 |
| Total Fat | 0.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 641.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 33.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.2 g |
| Sugars | 2.3 g |
| Protein | 10.3 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient Quantity | Ingredient Description |
|---|---|
| 2 cups | Dried black beans |
| 10 cups | Water |
| 8 cups | Vegetable broth |
| 2 cans | Tomatoes and green chilies (14.5 oz each) |
| 1 | Carrot, diced |
| 1 | Onion, chopped |
| 1/4 cup | Fresh cilantro, chopped |
| 2 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| 1 teaspoon | Salt |
| 1/4 teaspoon | Pepper |
| 1/4 teaspoon | Cayenne pepper (or to taste) |
Recipe Instructions
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Preparation of the Beans: Begin your culinary adventure by placing the dried black beans in a large soup pot and adding 10 cups of water. Heat the mixture over high heat until it reaches a rolling boil. This initial step is crucial as it begins to soften the beans and enhances their flavors.
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Simmer the Beans: Once the beans have boiled for about 10 minutes, reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the beans to absorb the water, making them tender and ready for the slow cooker.
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Rest the Beans: After the 10 minutes of simmering, remove the pot from the heat and cover it. Allow the beans to stand for 1 hour, giving them time to soak and further soften. This resting period is essential for achieving that perfectly creamy texture in your soup.
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Drain and Rinse: After an hour, drain the beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water. This process removes any impurities or debris that may have come from the dried beans.
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Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the drained beans to a 6-quart slow cooker. Next, add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes and green chilies, diced carrot, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Give everything a good stir to ensure that all ingredients are well combined. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will make your soup visually appealing and appetizing.
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Slow Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 10 to 12 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty soup. If you prefer, you can adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, cayenne, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce during the last hour of cooking.
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Serving Suggestions: Once the cooking time is up, your Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup will be ready to serve. Ladle the soup into individual bowls, and consider garnishing each bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprig of fresh cilantro. This simple touch elevates the dish and adds a beautiful presentation.
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Enjoy Your Meal: Sit back, relax, and savor each spoonful of this delightful soup. Its robust flavors and comforting warmth make it a meal that will surely be cherished by all who gather around your table.
This Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup recipe yields approximately 9 servings, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and effortless preparation, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, whether you serve it with quesadillas, chicken nachos, or enjoy it on its own, you can take pride in creating a dish that warms the heart and nourishes the body. Enjoy this delightful culinary experience, and remember, food tastes best when shared with loved ones!
