Big League Black Bean Soup

Big League Black Bean Soup Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Big League Black Bean Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that's perfect for any meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of black beans with fresh vegetables and a hint of sherry, creating a soup that's both satisfying and delicious. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade soup.

History

The origins of black bean soup can be traced back to Latin America, where beans are a staple ingredient in many dishes. Over the years, this simple yet flavorful soup has gained popularity across the globe, with various cultures adding their own twist to the recipe. The Big League Black Bean Soup version brings together traditional elements and modern touches, making it a contemporary classic that pays homage to its rich history.

Ingredients

2 x 16 oz (454 g) cans of drained black beans
1.5 cups of water
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup of sliced celery
1 cup of diced carrots
1 tbsp of olive oil
2 cups of chicken broth
1 x 4 oz (113 g) can of drained diced green chiles
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
1 tbsp of dry sherry
3 cups of hot cooked brown rice
0.5 cup of sliced green onions for garnish
0.5 cup of finely chopped tomato for garnish

How to prepare

Reserve 1 cup of black beans.
In an electric blender or food processor, puree the remaining beans with water; set aside.
In a Dutch oven, cook the onion, celery, and carrots in oil over medium-high heat until tender-crisp.
Add the broth, chiles, pepper, and both the whole and pureed beans.
Simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the sherry.
Top each serving with 0.5 cup of rice.
Garnish with green onions and tomato.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicier soup, include a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best flavor and texture, it's important to sauté the vegetables until they are tender-crisp. This ensures they retain some bite, adding a nice contrast to the creamy beans. Using a blender or food processor to puree part of the beans gives the soup a thick and smooth consistency without the need for cream or flour. Finally, adding the sherry at the end of cooking helps to enhance the flavors of the soup without the alcohol overpowering the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Big League Black Bean Soup hot, topped with the brown rice, green onions, and tomatoes for garnish. For a complete meal, pair the soup with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include sautéing the vegetables to develop their flavors and pureeing the beans to achieve a creamy texture without the use of dairy. Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dry sherry on hand, you can substitute it with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a similar acidic balance. If green chiles are not available, a small amount of canned chipotle peppers can provide a smoky heat as an alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl or garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro. A lime wedge on the side adds a fresh touch and allows guests to adjust the acidity to their liking.

Pairing Recommendations

Big League Black Bean Soup pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied beer like a lager. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with lime complements the flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth as needed to reach the desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Big League Black Bean Soup is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their calorie intake. The exact number of calories will depend on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving is around 200-300 calories, including the rice garnish.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Big League Black Bean Soup is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed to fuel your day. The black beans, brown rice, and vegetables contribute to the total carbohydrate content, making this soup a wholesome option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Fats

This recipe is low in fats, with the only source being the olive oil used for sautéing the vegetables. Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, making this soup a heart-friendly choice. The absence of heavy creams or butter keeps the fat content minimal, aligning with a health-conscious diet.

Proteins

Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this soup a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The protein content is further complemented by the chicken broth and the small amount of protein found in the vegetables, ensuring a well-rounded nutritional profile.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables and beans used in the recipe. Black beans are rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium, while the vegetables provide vitamins A, C, and K, among others. Together, these ingredients contribute to a nutrient-dense meal that supports overall health.

Alergens

This recipe is free from most common allergens, including dairy, nuts, and gluten (assuming gluten-free broth is used). However, those with specific food sensitivities should always check the labels of store-bought ingredients to ensure they meet their dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, Big League Black Bean Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's low in calories and free from common allergens, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Summary

Big League Black Bean Soup is a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich history and simple cooking techniques, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal on a cold day or a healthy option for your weekly meal plan, this soup delivers on all fronts.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Big League Black Bean Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through the old recipe box that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and handwritten notes, I stumbled upon a worn and stained recipe card with the title scrawled in faded ink.

The card was filled with a list of ingredients and detailed instructions on how to make the soup. I had never heard of Big League Black Bean Soup before, but something about the name intrigued me. I decided then and there that I had to give it a try.

I asked my grandmother about the recipe, but she had no recollection of where it came from. She simply shrugged and told me that she had probably picked it up from a friend or neighbor many years ago. Undeterred, I set out to gather the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen.

The first step was to soak the black beans overnight. I remember the anticipation building as I waited for the beans to plump up and soften. The next day, I began chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers, filling the kitchen with a fragrant aroma that made my mouth water.

As I sautéed the vegetables in a large pot, I added the soaked beans, along with chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The soup simmered on the stove for hours, the flavors melding together to create a rich and hearty broth.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. I took a tentative sip and was immediately transported back to my childhood, sitting at my grandmother's kitchen table, surrounded by the comforting smells and tastes of home.

I knew then that this recipe was a keeper. It became a staple in my own kitchen, a go-to meal for chilly nights or when I wanted to impress guests with a delicious and hearty soup. Over the years, I made a few tweaks here and there, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that to suit my own taste preferences.

As I shared the recipe with friends and family, it became a beloved favorite among them as well. They would often ask me for the recipe, and I would happily pass it on, knowing that it would bring them the same joy and comfort that it had brought me.

I like to think that the recipe for Big League Black Bean Soup has a storied history, passed down through generations of cooks who have added their own unique touch to it. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to each other, to evoke memories and create new ones.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Big League Black Bean Soup, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that sparked my curiosity all those years ago. It has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a symbol of the love and tradition that I hold dear. And as I take that first savory spoonful, I am reminded once again of the magic that can be found in a simple recipe and a shared meal.