When it comes to comfort food, a bowl of soup that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing checks all the boxes. Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Corn Soup is a Tex-Mex-inspired masterpiece that’s bursting with bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and a touch of heat to keep you warm.
This soup is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a laid-back weekend dinner. It’s vegetarian (and easily made vegan), high in protein, and full of fiber. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or some crunchy tortilla chips, and you have a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, it’s a go-to meal for any home cook.
- Nutritious & Satisfying: Packed with black beans and sweet corn, it delivers protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, toppings, or even swap ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Ingredients
This recipe relies on pantry staples and fresh produce for a vibrant and flavorful bowl. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, fresh cilantro, sour cream, tortilla chips, or shredded cheese
Kitchen Equipment
You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make this soup. Here’s what to have on hand:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Immersion blender (optional, for texture adjustments)
- Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
2. Bloom the Spices
Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir continuously for 1 minute, letting the spices toast and release their aromas.
3. Build the Base
Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the black beans, sweet corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato paste. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Simmer and Develop Flavor
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld into a flavorful harmony.
5. Blend (Optional)
For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer 2 cups of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Add Freshness
Stir in the lime juice for a bright, tangy finish. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Avocado, cilantro, and tortilla chips are highly recommended for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Spice Control: Adjust the cayenne and chili powder to your preferred heat level. If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Richer Flavor: A teaspoon of chipotle in adobo sauce can add a smoky, spicy depth.
- Make it Vegan: Swap sour cream and cheese toppings for dairy-free alternatives.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: If you have fresh corn, char it in a hot skillet for a smoky, caramelized flavor.
Storing & Reheating
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Corn Soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Tortilla Chips or Cornbread: Add a crunchy or buttery element to your meal.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with avocado dressing complements the rich soup.
- Drinks: Serve with a chilled margarita or a crisp lager for a Tex-Mex-inspired feast.
FAQ
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics and spices first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook the beans beforehand. Use about 1 1/2 cups of cooked black beans in place of the canned variety.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Just double-check that your broth and any toppings you use are gluten-free.
Let’s Get Cooking!
This Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Corn Soup is an easy, flavorful recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for any season, it’s hearty enough to satisfy on its own but versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides.
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Happy cooking! 🌶️