Quick and Easy Black Bean Soup

Recipe View 10 mins Render Bacon: In a cold Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, add the chopped bacon. Turn the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is cooked but not crisp, releasing its flavorful fat (8-10 minutes).

Recipe View 8 mins Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon. Cook and stir until the onion becomes translucent and golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.

Recipe View 5 mins Build the Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt. Add the rinsed and drained black beans and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Recipe View 30 mins Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. During the last 10 minutes of simmering, use an immersion blender or potato masher to partially mash about half of the beans directly in the pot. This will thicken the soup and create a creamier texture.

Recipe View 2 mins Season and Finish: Stir in the ground black pepper and cumin. Taste and adjust the salt as needed.

Recipe View 1 mins Prepare the Lime Relish: In a small bowl, combine the minced green onion, sambal paste (or minced red chiles), and lime juice. Stir to combine.

Recipe View 1 mins Serve: Ladle the black bean soup into bowls. Garnish with a spoonful of the lime relish, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.