Quick and Easy Black Bean Soup

Let’s be real—I love homemade meals such as black bean soup, but I don’t have the time (or patience!) to soak and cook dried black beans from scratch.

That’s why this black bean soup recipe keeps things simple with canned beans—because fast and delicious is my kind of cooking! 

With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful soup ready in no time. Perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying meal without the hassle!

Want to Use Fresh Ingredients?

If you want to use fresh ingredients that you may have on hand, do this:

Exchange the dry ingredients in the recipe, above, for these fresh ingredients listed below!

• 1/2 a large onion, peeled and sliced
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• 3 slices fresh elephant garlic, or 2 small "regular sized" garlic cloves

Pro Tip: Lemon Juice Adds That Little Zip of Flavor

...and the bacon really adds to the depth!

A little note here about beans. If you prefer to suffer from less gas—and who wouldn't?—consider rinsing the beans first.

This takes away most of the gaseous effect of the beans. Just grab your sieve and rinse the beans under the kitchen faucet... how easy is that no-gas-solution?!

Origins of Black Bean Soup

Black bean soup is a traditional dish that is popular in Latin American countries. It is made with black beans, vegetables, and spices and is typically served with rice on the side or tortillas.

How about crispy tortilla chips or salsa? Cheese is a good go-to addition, and let's not forget about topping it off with sour cream.

For those who like it hot: add a dash of hot sauce, and to cool your mouth down: add a lime wedge!

Do You Add Meat to Black Bean Soup?

Quick Question: Do folks add meat to black bean soup?

Quick answer: No. It's typically made with vegetables only.

However, you can add meat if you want to! Some common additions include chicken, beef, or pork. In doing so, to me, that would begin to resemble chili! (Without the heat, of course!)

Black Bean Soup Deserves Home-Baked Bread!

Make your own bread to serve with this delicious soup! Yes, you can make delicious great-tasting bread at home. We have two great sources: Anita and this beginner recipe based on Breadworld's beginner recipe... yummy!

What ARE Black Beans?

Black beans are a type of legume that is high in protein and fiber, and they have a delicious, nutty flavor.

Their smooth, creamy texture makes them an important ingredient in many dishes around the world.

They are native to South America and Central America. They're also known as "turtle beans," "Brazilian beans," and "black turtle beans."

Which Country Grows the Most Black Beans?

Black beans are typically grown in warm climates. They are planted in the spring and harvested in the fall. Here are the top countries for growing black beans:

• Brazil - Brazil is the world's largest producer and exporter of black beans. The climate in many regions of Brazil is ideal for growing beans, with warm temperatures, abundant rainfall, and fertile soil. Major black bean-producing states include Minas Gerais, Goiás, Parana, and São Paulo.
• India - India is another top producer of black beans, often known as urad dal. The tropical climate in many parts of India allows for excellent bean production. Major growing regions include Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.
• Myanmar - Black beans are an important crop in Myanmar (also known as Burma). The monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons provides good conditions for bean cultivation. Key producing areas are in the Sagaing and Magway regions.
• China - China grows a sizable quantity of black beans, though most are consumed domestically. Yunnan province in southwest China offers an ideal environment for bean farming.
• Mexico - Mexico has a long tradition of black bean cultivation and consumption. The states of Veracruz, Sinaloa, and Zacatecas are important producers. Mexican black beans are widely used in traditional cuisine.
• United States - While not a leading global producer, black beans are grown in the southern states of the U.S., mainly Florida, Georgia, and California. Production tends to be small-scale and oriented toward domestic consumption.

If You're Into Soup...

If you love soup as much as I do, then check out these fantastic, easy soup recipes:

• Cauliflower Soup
• Celery and Potato Soup
• Chicken Noodle Soup
• Green Split Pea Soup
• Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup
• Lentil Soup ~ Classic
• Tasty Tuna Fish Soup
• Vegetable Soup
• Velvety Pea Soup

All of these tasty soup recipes are available in our 20 Taste-Tested Easy Recipes eBook/Paperback! Treat yourself today.

Get Your Free Guide to Dehydrating Like a Pro!

Don't forget to grab your free Six Simple Steps eBook! It’s packed with tips for dehydrating everything from fruits and veggies to dog treats. Get it here.