Black Bean Soup-Cuban Style(Frijoles Negros)
A hearty Cuban-style black bean soup rich in smoky roasted peppers, garlic, and spices, perfect for comforting meals and flavorful gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and rinse the black beans carefully, selecting out damaged beans such as chipped or broken ones.
- Soak the beans in water for two hours before cooking.
- Do not drain the soaking water; use it for cooking the beans as it may become discolored.
- Poke the green pepper with a fork and roast it lightly over a flame or heat until the skin can be peeled off.
- Remove the green pepper from heat, peel off its skin, and discard the seeds.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of Cajun Salt to the soup while it simmers. If you don't have black beans, pinto beans work as a substitute, though the flavor will differ. You can also add a splash of vinegar at the end for brightness. To save time, use canned black beans, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as they are already cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the black bean soup hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Cabbage Melange for a refreshing crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving with warm tortillas or over rice for added texture and heartiness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen over time. To reheat, add a splash of water to loosen the soup as it may thicken in the fridge. Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Bean Soup-Cuban Style(Frijoles Negros) contains roughly 1140 calories, with 32g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (216% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (137% of the Daily Value), and protein (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1866mg per serving (81% 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 make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can certainly make this soup in a slow cooker. After soaking the beans, add them with all the other ingredients to the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This Black Bean Soup is vegan-friendly as it does not contain any animal products. It's a great option for those following a plant-based diet, and you can enhance its nutritional value by adding vegetables like carrots or spinach.
How spicy is this black bean soup?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add heat according to your preference. Consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your tolerance for spice.
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).