Black Bean Soup (Better than Panera!)

black beans

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Lentils are lower in calories and higher in protein, while pinto beans are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is nutritious, while canola oil is budget-friendly.

Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in a Dutch oven until hot.

Add chopped onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until soft.

If using a slow cooker, add all ingredients without sautéing.

Add black beans, Rotel tomatoes, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt; stir well.

Pour in vegetable broth and add a squeeze of lime; stir and bring to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Blend a couple of scoops of the soup to thicken it, then return it to the pot and stir.

Serve with grated pepper jack cheese, cilantro, and lime on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary