Cuban Black Bean Soup: A Delicious and Hearty Dish
Cuban black bean soup, also known as sopa de frijoles negros, is a traditional and popular dish in Cuban cuisine. This flavorful and hearty soup is made from black beans, which are cooked until tender and combined with a variety of aromatic ingredients. It is a staple dish in many Cuban households and is often served with rice and a slice of lime for added freshness.
Ingredients:
1 pound (450 grams) dried black beans
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced onions
Instructions:
Start by rinsing the black beans under cold water and removing any debris or stones. Transfer the beans to a large pot and cover them with water. Allow them to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
After soaking, drain the beans and return them to the pot. Add enough water to cover the beans and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and fragrant.
Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the cooked beans. Stir in the bay leaves, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree a portion of the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. This step is optional, as some prefer a chunky soup while others prefer a smoother texture.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to thin it out.
Serve the Cuban black bean soup hot, garnished with optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced onions. It pairs perfectly with white rice and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare, including soaking time for the beans. It is a fantastic option for a comforting and nourishing meal, especially during colder months.