How to Make a Mexican Sweet Potato and Black Bean Soup
Mexican sweet potato and black bean soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the hearty texture of black beans. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch, and it can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious bowl of soup that is both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Sweet Potatoes
Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine, allowing the sweet potatoes to soak up the spices and flavors for about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring that the sweet potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Black Beans
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, stir in the rinsed black beans. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm the beans through. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, or you can blend it in batches using a regular blender.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. The lime juice adds a bright acidity that complements the sweetness of the potatoes and the earthiness of the beans.
Health Benefits
This Mexican sweet potato and black bean soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, while black beans provide fiber and protein, making this soup a well-rounded meal. Additionally, it is naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences.
Variations
Feel free to customize the soup to your liking. You can add ingredients like corn, diced tomatoes, or avocado for extra texture and flavor. For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeños or chipotle peppers into the soup. Pair it with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy this delicious Mexican sweet potato and black bean soup as a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch option. It’s a delightful way to warm up your day while benefiting from wholesome ingredients.