How to Make a Mexican Pinto Bean Soup
If you're looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, Mexican Pinto Bean Soup is an excellent choice. This hearty soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, making it perfect for any meal. Follow this simple recipe to create a traditional Mexican Pinto Bean Soup that's sure to warm your soul.
Ingredients for Mexican Pinto Bean Soup
- 2 cups dried pinto beans, soaked overnight
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions to Prepare Mexican Pinto Bean Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Drain and rinse the soaked pinto beans. In a large pot, combine the beans and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender. You can skip soaking if you're short on time and use canned beans, but they should be added later in the cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. This step enhances the flavors and adds depth to your soup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the vegetables are done cooking, add them to the pot with the beans. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, diced tomatoes (with their juice), salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Let the mixture simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Pinto Bean Soup with tortilla chips or crusty bread!
Tips for Perfecting Your Mexican Pinto Bean Soup
- For an added kick, incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.
- Consider adding diced bell peppers or corn for extra texture and sweetness.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it great for meal prep.
Making Mexican Pinto Bean Soup is both easy and rewarding. With its robust flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy cooking and, most importantly, enjoy your delicious meal!