Save Warm up with a bowl of this Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup, a hearty Southwestern-inspired dish that balances savory spices with natural sweetness. The combination of tender sweet potatoes and earthy black beans creates a satisfying texture, while a zesty lime crema adds a bright, refreshing finish. It's the ultimate comforting meal for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Save This soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something truly spectacular. Using common pantry items like canned black beans and diced tomatoes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that feels indulgent yet light. The lime crema is the secret ingredient that ties everything together, cutting through the smokiness with a burst of citrusy zest.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnishes: chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Step 2: Add Vegetables
- Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper; cook for 2 more minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 3: Toast Spices
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to toast the spices and coat the vegetables.
- Step 4: Combine Liquids
- Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Step 5: Simmer
- Cover the pot and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Step 6: Partially Puree
- Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup in the pot for a creamy texture, leaving some chunks for body. Alternatively, transfer 2 cups to a countertop blender, puree, and return to the pot.
- Step 7: Prepare Lime Crema
- While the soup simmers, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.
- Step 8: Season and Taste
- Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper if necessary.
- Step 9: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each with a dollop of the prepared lime crema and your desired garnishes.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, use a large soup pot that allows for even heating. When using the immersion blender, do so in short bursts to maintain a rustic consistency with plenty of sweet potato chunks. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, particularly with vegetable broth and yogurt, to ensure the dish meets your dietary needs.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a completely vegan version, simply swap the sour cream or Greek yogurt in the crema for a plant-based yogurt alternative. You can also increase the nutritional value by stirring in fresh spinach or frozen corn during the last 5 minutes of simmering. For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or use a spicy chili powder.
Serviervorschläge
This soup pairs exceptionally well with warm, crusty bread or crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. To complement the Southwestern spices, serve it alongside a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing, citrusy pale ale. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and jalapeño slices for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Save Whether you're looking for a healthy lunch or a satisfying family dinner, this Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Its vibrant colors and layers of flavor make it a true feast for the senses. Enjoy your meal and the cozy atmosphere it brings to your table.
Common Questions
- → How do I achieve the smoky flavor in the soup?
The smoky taste comes primarily from smoked paprika combined with the black beans, adding depth and warmth to the dish.
- → Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, substitute the lime crema made with sour cream or Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan.
- → What is the best way to get a creamy texture?
Partially pureeing the soup with an immersion blender while leaving some chunks maintains a smooth yet hearty consistency.
- → Are there any good side additions to this dish?
Adding corn or spinach boosts vegetables, and serving with warm crusty bread or tortilla chips complements the flavors well.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Add or reduce cayenne pepper according to taste; omitting it keeps the heat mild while still flavorful.
