Are you craving a hearty, nutritious, and absolutely delicious soup that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico? Look no further! This Mexican Black Bean Quinoa Soup is not just a meal; it's a flavor-packed journey that combines protein-rich quinoa, robust black beans, and a symphony of spices that will make your palate dance with joy. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this soup is a game-changer that proves healthy eating can be incredibly satisfying and exciting.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Stir in cumin and chili powder, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromatic flavors for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in vegetable broth, rinsed quinoa, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until quinoa is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural saponin coating, which can make the soup taste bitter.
- Spice Optimization: Toast your spices (cumin and chili powder) briefly before adding liquid to enhance their depth and complexity of flavor.
- Liquid Ratio Matters: Ensure you have the right broth-to-quinoa ratio to achieve the perfect soup consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can always add a little more vegetable broth.
- Customize Your Garnishes: Experiment with toppings like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime to add extra layers of flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
