Caribbean Bliss: Slow Cooker Black Bean Delight 🌴

Caribbean Black Bean Soup – Slow Cooker 🥣

Introduction:

Indulge in the rich flavors of the Caribbean with this hearty and satisfying Caribbean Black Bean Soup, meticulously crafted to perfection in your slow cooker. While it demands a bit of preparation, particularly if you opt for dried black beans, every ounce of effort is rewarded with a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re seeking a comforting weeknight meal or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Overview:

• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Prep Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 16 hours
• Yield: Serves a hearty portion
• Calories: 237 per serving
• Rating: 4.5 stars (based on 3 reviews)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried black beans
• 3 onions
• 1 green pepper
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 ham hock (optional)
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• Sour cream, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Soak the Beans: Begin by soaking the dried black beans overnight in 4 quarts of water. This step helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.

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2. Prepare the Ingredients: After soaking, drain the beans and gather the onions, green pepper, garlic, ham hock (if using), diced ham, and spices (ground cumin, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper).

3. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the soaked beans, chopped onions, diced green pepper, minced garlic, diced ham, ground cumin, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and 3 cups of fresh water. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Cook Slow and Low: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a deeply flavorful soup.

5. Puree for Thickness (Optional): For a thicker consistency, remove half of the cooked bean mixture from the slow cooker and either puree it in a blender until smooth or mash it with a potato masher. Return the pureed mixture to the slow cooker and stir to combine.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Adding a splash of vinegar at this stage enhances the flavors and adds a subtle tanginess to the soup.

7. Prepare Garnishes: If you used a ham hock, debone it and cut the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the ham pieces to the soup.

8. Serve: Ladle the Caribbean Black Bean Soup into bowls, placing a dollop of sour cream in the center of each serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Enjoy Your Culinary Journey!

Treat yourself to a bowl of this Caribbean-inspired delight and savor the vibrant flavors of the islands in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as a hearty weeknight meal or served to impress guests, this slow cooker black bean soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, fire up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to the tropics without leaving the comfort of your kitchen!