Looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that practically cooks itself? Dive into the world of "Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup," where rich Mexican flavors meet the convenience of a slow cooker! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Imagine coming home to the inviting aroma of spices and beans simmering away, ready to warm your soul. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for everyone. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining and rinsing the black beans, chopping the onion and bell pepper, and mincing the garlic.
- Add the drained black beans to the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed across the bottom of the pot.
- Layer the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper on top of the black beans.
- Pour the vegetable broth over the ingredients, ensuring all components are mostly covered.
- Sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper evenly across the top of the mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat setting.
- Allow the soup to cook slowly for 6 hours, which will help develop rich, deep flavors and tenderize the beans.
- After cooking time is complete, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to partially mash some beans, creating a thicker, creamier texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocado.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and rinse the beans the night before. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for a smoky kick. You can also add diced tomatoes for extra richness.
- Thickening the Soup: For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans after cooking. This not only thickens the soup but also enhances the flavor.
- Garnish for Greatness: Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of avocado can elevate your soup from good to gourmet.
- Leftovers Love: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to a week and freezes beautifully. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your black bean soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 228kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
