Big Sur Black Bean Soup

Big Sur Black Bean Soup Recipe from Jordan - Ingredients and Instructions

Region / culture: Jordan | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 90 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Big Sur Black Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of rustic, comfort food. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that is both nourishing and satisfying. With its rich blend of spices, vegetables, and black beans, this soup is a testament to the simple yet profound pleasures of cooking with basic, wholesome ingredients. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nutritious option for your weekly meal prep, the Big Sur Black Bean Soup is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

History

The origins of black bean soup can be traced back to Latin America, where beans are a staple ingredient in many cuisines. Over time, this humble dish has traveled and evolved, incorporating various regional flavors and techniques. The Big Sur Black Bean Soup, in particular, is inspired by the rugged beauty and free-spirited lifestyle of Big Sur, California. This version of the classic black bean soup pays homage to the area's natural splendor and the simple, yet profound joy of cooking with fresh, local ingredients.

Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 carrot, peeled and minced
2 celery ribs, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp cumin seeds
0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
3 cup black beans, soaked in water overnight and drained
1 jalapeño, or 2 for more heat
2 bay leaves
kosher salt
freshly-ground black pepper

How to prepare

Heat the olive oil in a large heavy stockpot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until they are tender and fragrant, about 15 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 minutes more. Add the cumin and red pepper, and stir for 1 minute. Add the black beans and 6 cups of water.
Using a paring knife, make several lengthwise slits in the jalapeño, add it to the soup, and add the bay leaves. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer the beans until they are completely tender and begin to fall apart, 40 to 90 minutes, depending on the age of the beans. As the beans cook, add more water if needed to prevent them from becoming too dry.
Remove and discard the jalapeño and the bay leaves. If desired, you can puree half of the beans using an immersion blender, or simply cook them for 15 minutes more until they nearly dissolve.
Stir the soup, taste, and season with salt and pepper. Ladle into soup bowls and serve immediately. Alternatively, refrigerate and reheat when ready to serve.
Serve with your favorite salsa or some grated cheddar cheese, if desired.

Variations

For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Incorporate other vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or bell peppers, for added nutrition and color.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a deeper flavor base.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Big Sur Black Bean Soup, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Soak the black beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance their texture.

- Use a high-quality olive oil for sautéing to add depth of flavor.

- Don't rush the sautéing process; allowing the vegetables to cook slowly will develop a richer flavor base.

- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeño according to your preference.

- For a smoother soup, puree a portion of the beans before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a touch of creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can also enhance the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a flavorful Big Sur Black Bean Soup lies in the slow cooking of the beans and vegetables. Sautéing the vegetables until they are tender and fragrant helps to release their natural sugars and flavors, which form the foundation of the soup. Simmering the beans gently allows them to become tender and absorb the rich blend of spices and aromatics.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cumin seeds, ground cumin can be used as a substitute.

- In place of jalapeño, other types of chili peppers can be used to adjust the heat level.

- For those avoiding oil, vegetable broth can be used for sautéing the vegetables.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made in advance 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

Serve the soup in a deep bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and a wedge of lime on the side. For an elegant touch, drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

A glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or a Zinfandel, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the Big Sur Black Bean Soup. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime complements the dish nicely.

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 achieve the desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Big Sur Black Bean Soup contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a low-calorie option that's filling and nutritious. This calorie count can vary slightly based on the exact portion size and any additional toppings or sides.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Big Sur Black Bean Soup is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from the black beans and vegetables. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, and this soup provides a healthy balance of complex carbs that digest slowly, keeping you full and energized longer.

Fats

The primary source of fat in this recipe comes from the olive oil used for sautéing. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. This soup contains a moderate amount of fat, making it a wholesome choice for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making the Big Sur Black Bean Soup a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, and this soup provides a substantial amount to support your body's needs.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables and black beans. It's particularly rich in Vitamin A (from the carrots), Vitamin C (from the jalapeño), and various B vitamins. Additionally, black beans are a good source of iron and magnesium, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe is naturally free from most common allergens, including gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. However, those with specific food sensitivities should always review the ingredients list carefully and make adjustments as necessary.

Summary

Overall, the Big Sur Black Bean Soup is a nutritionally balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, low in calories, and free from common allergens, making it a wholesome choice for a wide range of dietary needs.

Summary

The Big Sur Black Bean Soup is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that is both comforting and nutritious. With its rich flavors, healthful benefits, and versatility, this soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're seeking a cozy meal for a cold night or a nutritious option for your meal prep, this recipe offers something for everyone to enjoy.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Big Sur Black Bean Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through a box of old cookbooks that had been passed down to me from my mother. As I flipped through the pages, a torn and stained piece of paper fell out onto the kitchen counter. It was a handwritten recipe for the most delicious-sounding soup I had ever heard of.

The recipe was titled "Big Sur Black Bean Soup" and it called for a unique blend of ingredients that I had never seen used together before. Black beans, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, cilantro, and a secret spice blend that was listed simply as "magic." I was intrigued and determined to recreate this mysterious soup in my own kitchen.

I remembered hearing stories from my own mother about her own adventures in the kitchen, learning from various people and places over the years. She would always say that the best recipes were the ones that were shared with love and passed down through generations. I knew that this recipe for Big Sur Black Bean Soup must have a story behind it, and I was determined to uncover it.

I decided to start by gathering the ingredients listed on the recipe card. I made a trip to the local farmers market, where I picked out the freshest black beans, tomatoes, bell peppers, and cilantro I could find. I could already smell the earthy aroma of the soup as I gathered my ingredients.

Back in my kitchen, I set to work chopping the vegetables and simmering the black beans on the stove. The recipe called for a slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and hearty broth. As the soup simmered, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. I knew that this soup was going to be something special.

As I stirred the pot, I thought back to the stories my mother had told me about her own experiences in the kitchen. She had learned to cook from her own grandmother, who had passed down recipes that had been in our family for generations. I knew that this recipe for Big Sur Black Bean Soup must have a similar history behind it, and I was eager to uncover the secrets hidden within its flavors.

Hours passed as the soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its intoxicating aroma. Finally, it was time to taste the finished product. I ladled a steaming bowl of soup into a ceramic bowl and took a cautious sip. The flavors exploded on my tongue, a perfect balance of earthy black beans, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic spices. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special with this recipe for Big Sur Black Bean Soup. It was a dish that spoke of tradition, of love, and of the simple pleasure of sharing a meal with those you care about. I could imagine my own mother and grandmother sitting around the kitchen table, sharing stories and laughter as they savored each spoonful of this delicious soup.

As I sat down to enjoy my own bowl of Big Sur Black Bean Soup, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the journey that had led me to this moment. I had learned so much from my family, from their stories and experiences in the kitchen. And now, as I savored the flavors of this incredible soup, I knew that I was carrying on a tradition that would be passed down to future generations.

I smiled to myself as I took another sip of soup, savoring the warmth and comfort it brought me. This recipe for Big Sur Black Bean Soup was more than just a dish; it was a memory, a connection to my past and a promise for the future. And as I sat there, surrounded by the echoes of generations past, I knew that I had found something truly special in that old, tattered recipe card.