Amy Henson'S Black Bean Soup
A hearty black bean soup with smoky ham and aromatic spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for those who enjoy flavorful, savory dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the black turtle beans for 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
- Cover the beans with water and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, adding more water as needed.
- Add the shredded ham, diced onions, chopped garlic, diced red and green bell peppers, bay leaf, sweet basil, allspice, cumin, fennel seed, and oregano during simmering.
- Pour in the orange juice and continue to cook until flavors meld and beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of smoked paprika or diced tomatoes to the soup. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked tofu or tempeh. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, and feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition. Soaking the beans overnight will also help reduce cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the black bean soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Warmer Kartoffelsalat(Hot Potato Salad) or crusty bread for a filling meal. Add a side of avocado slices or a simple green salad to balance the hearty flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover black bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amy Henson'S Black Bean Soup contains roughly 1257 calories, with 52g protein, 238g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (461% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 523mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned black beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned black beans for a quicker preparation. Rinse and drain them, then add them to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through and absorb flavors. However, using dried beans will give a better texture and flavor.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while simmering. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for individual spice levels. Adjust the spices as needed to suit your taste.
What can I serve with black bean soup?
This soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, try it alongside Jarred'S Favorite Brown Rice And Pork Chops for a comforting combination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).