Robert Fraga'S Cuban Black Bean Soup
Roberto Fraga's Cuban Black Bean Soup offers a hearty, savory experience with rich black beans, aromatic peppers, and a hint of vinegar and sugar for balanced flavor. Perfect for comforting meals, it suits those who enjoy bold, traditional Latin American cuisine with a touch of smoky goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the black beans overnight in water.
- Drain the beans and cook them in 10 cups of water for approximately 3 hours until tender.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped green peppers and the large chopped onion; sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Add the cooked beans along with their cooking liquid to the pot.
- Add the bay leaf and sliced pimentos.
- Simmer the soup for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in sugar, vinegar, and red cooking wine.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker cooking time, consider using canned black beans, rinsed and drained. You can substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Adjust the spices to your preference by adding cayenne pepper for heat or using fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh touch. If you want a smokier flavor, try adding smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Cuban Black Bean Soup with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness. It pairs wonderfully with side dishes like Torn Salad Dressing or traditional rice and beans, enhancing the overall experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months; just ensure it's cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Robert Fraga'S Cuban Black Bean Soup contains roughly 1016 calories, with 39g protein, 235g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (438% 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 993mg per serving (43% 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 advance?
Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it gently before serving. Just remember to adjust the seasoning, as flavors may intensify overnight.
Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This Cuban Black Bean Soup is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for those seeking vegan recipes. Just ensure that any added ingredients, like stock or seasoning, are also vegan-friendly.
What can I add for extra protein?
If you're looking to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked quinoa or diced tofu. These options blend well with the flavors of the soup without overpowering it. Additionally, for a meatier version, shredded chicken can be incorporated.
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).