Save When the weather turns cool, there is nothing more satisfying than a steaming bowl of soup that balances earthy flavors with a bright, citrusy finish. This Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup is a vibrant vegetarian dish that brings the warmth of Southwestern spices to your table. The natural sweetness of the potatoes melts into a rich, smoky broth, creating a meal that is both comforting and deeply nourishing.
Save The beauty of this soup lies in its layered complexity. By toasting the spices with the vegetables before adding the broth, you unlock a deeper level of flavor that permeates every spoonful. It is a quick-to-prepare weeknight winner that tastes even better as leftovers the next day.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 medium red bell pepper (diced), 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and diced).
- Beans and Liquids: 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans (drained and rinsed), 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
- Lime Crema: 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, zest of 1 lime, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, pinch of salt.
- Garnishes: Chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges.
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Step 2: Add Peppers and Garlic
- Add garlic and bell pepper; cook for 2 more minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 3: Toast the Spices
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Add black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Step 5: Blend and Texture
- Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup in the pot for a creamy texture, leaving some chunks for body. Alternatively, transfer 2 cups to a blender, puree, and return to the pot.
- Step 6: Prepare the Crema
- While the soup simmers, make the lime crema by whisking together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.
- Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serving
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle into bowls and top each with a dollop of lime crema and desired garnishes.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, be careful not to over-blend the soup; keeping a few chunks of sweet potato and whole black beans provides a more satisfying mouthfeel. If the soup becomes too thick after pureeing, simply stir in a splash more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this recipe entirely vegan, simply substitute the sour cream or Greek yogurt in the crema with a plant-based yogurt alternative. You can also boost the nutritional value by stirring in a handful of fresh spinach or corn kernels during the last five minutes of simmering.
Serviervorschläge
This soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or a side of crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. For a complete dining experience, serve it alongside a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy pale ale to complement the zesty lime and smoky spices.
Save With its bold colors and comforting warmth, this Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you're looking for a healthy lunch or a cozy dinner, this dish delivers satisfaction in every spoonful. Enjoy the perfect balance of spice, sweet, and zest!
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives this soup its smoky flavor?
The smoky taste comes from smoked paprika, adding depth without overwhelming the natural flavors.
- → Can I make the lime crema vegan?
Yes, substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt to keep it creamy and dairy-free.
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
Adjust or omit the cayenne pepper and jalapeños to suit your preferred spice tolerance.
- → Is blending necessary for texture?
Partial blending creates a creamy body while leaving some chunks for a satisfying, rustic texture.
- → What are good accompaniments for this soup?
Serve with warm crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors.