Name: Amazing Vegan Black Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, with seeds); 6 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp salt; 1–2 tsp chipotle powder (to taste); 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp oregano; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp lime juice; 4 cups (1 quart) vegetable stock; 3 (14.5 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed; Optional garnish: cilantro, avocado, vegan cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is simple, satisfying, and full of bold flavors from chipotle powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and lime juice. It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and is versatile enough to serve as a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option for busy days. Top it with fresh cilantro, avocado, or vegan cheese for a customizable bowl that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 jalapeño, finely diced with seeds (optional)
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons salt
1–2 teaspoons chipotle powder (depending on heat preference, or omit)
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 quart (4 cups) vegetable stock
3 (14.5-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed

For garnish: cilantro sprigs, avocado, cotija cheese (omit or use vegan cheese for fully vegan)

Directions

In a large pot, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Stir in jalapeño and garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add salt, chipotle powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, coriander, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
Pour in vegetable stock and black beans. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some beans whole for texture. (Alternatively, transfer 2 cups of soup to a blender, puree, then return to the pot.)
Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, avocado, and vegan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add roasted sweet potatoes for extra sweetness and texture.
Stir in corn kernels or diced tomatoes for added flavor.
For extra protein, add cooked quinoa or brown rice.
Use chili powder instead of chipotle powder for a milder spice.
Top with tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients except lime juice and cook on low for 6–7 hours. Stir in lime juice before serving.

Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes, cook 1 ½ cups dried black beans until tender (about 4–5 cups cooked) and use in place of canned.

Is this soup spicy?

It depends on how much chipotle powder and jalapeño you use. Adjust to your preferred heat level.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes, sauté the vegetables in a splash of vegetable stock instead of oil.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Pureeing part of the soup with an immersion blender thickens it naturally without cream.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are great additions.

How do I keep the soup fully vegan?

Leave out the cotija cheese garnish or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Can I meal-prep this soup?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I serve with black bean soup?

Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side salad pair wonderfully with this soup.

Can I make it less smoky?

Omit the smoked paprika and reduce or skip chipotle powder for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Amazing Vegan Black Bean Soup is a hearty, nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its smoky spices, creamy texture, and vibrant garnishes, it’s a comforting soup that’s perfect for any time of year. Serve it with bread or chips for a complete, satisfying meal.