How to Prepare Cuban Black Bean Soup (Vegetarian & Egg-Free)
It is a rich, hearty and comforting black bean soup with bold Cuban flavors. This egg-free version is still the real thing, with a signature flavor profile of spices, creamy black beans and fresh vegetables that delivers an authentic taste of Cuban cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Intense, savory flavour profile – Ideal balance of smokey, tangy and earthy notes.
✅ Healthy & protein packed — Black beans are a great source of fiber and plant based protein.
✅ Simple ingredients, big flavors — Pantry staples make for authentic Cuban flavor.
✅ Simple to prepare – Roughly 45 minutes or less with basic effort.
✅ Very versatile – Serve with rice, bread, or just eat it as is.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base:
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or green)
1 medium carrot, diced
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
For the Soup:
3 cups vegetable broth
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked beans)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, diced)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for acid balance)
½ cup corn kernels (optional, for sweetness)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How to Cook Step by Step
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Stir in many onions, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper and bay leaf, and cook 1 minute to release flavors.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Add the vegetable broth, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring up to a simmer.
Step 3: Simmer & Thicken
Put the lid on the pot and simmer the soup for 20 minutes, stirring every so often. For a creamier consistency, blend some of the soup with an immersion blender, leaving some beans intact.
Step 4: Final Touches
Add apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar (if using), and corn (if using), stir. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with fresh cilantro, and serve with the cooked rice, plantain chips or crusty bread.
TRICKS FOR MAKING CUBAN BLACK BEAN SOUP
✔️ For more flavor use dry beans – If you are using dried beans, soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before making the soup.
✔️ Change texture — Blend part of the soup for greater thickness, or add more broth to make it thinner.
✔️ Develop flavor – Give the soup some time to sit; the flavors deepen after a few hours, or better yet overnight; tastes even better the next day!
✔️ Make it spicier — Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
This Cuban Black Bean Soup is healthy, filling and delicious.
✨ Packed with plant-based protein – Black beans are a great source of protein and fiber.
✨ Good for digestion – Contents rich in fiber help to keep gut and digestion healthy.
✨ Good for the heart – Rich in antioxidants that are great for your heart.
✨ Builds immunity – Garlic, onions and bell peppers support the immune system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it possible to make this soup minus the tomatoes?
A: Yes! Tomatoes can be omitted or switched out for roasted red bell peppers for different flavor.
Q: How long does the soup keep?
A: Refrigerate 4 to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Q: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Place all ingredients (except vinegar and soy sauce) in slow cooker and cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours.
Final Thoughts
Cuban Black Bean Soup | Bosh!You are logged in to your account This Cuban Black Bean Soup is a hearty, filling, protein-packed and delicious dish that is ideal for weeknights! Whether served alone or alongside rice, it’s a hearty meal that brings a bit of Cuba into your kitchen.
Try it out and enjoy those bold flavors!
Happy cooking! 🍛🌿
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