Smoky Black Bean Soup

If I had to pick a favorite type of bean, black beans are definitely up there. They are great in dips, soups, burritos, or on their own. In this soup, they pair perfectly with the smokiness of the bacon and paprika as well as the full bodied flavor that the chili powder brings to the soup. The lime and cilantro also bring a unique acidity and flavor to this soup that takes it from ordinary to unique and delicious.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:
10 slices of smoked bacon
2 1/2 cups chopped onion (about 2 onions)
6 garlic cloves, diced
1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth
1 3/4 cups canned chopped tomatoes
2 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 Tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 (26.5 oz) cans black beans, drained
1 lime
1 cup cilantro, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
sour cream, garnish
green onions, garnish

On a cutting board, chop 2 1/2 cups of onions and dice 6 garlic cloves.

Cut 10 slices of bacon into small 1/2 inch pieces. 

In a large stock pot over medium-high heat, add bacon and cook for 4-7 minutes until bacon begins to release its fat and cook down. 

Stir in the onions and cook an additional 4-6 minutes until onions become translucent.

Add in the garlic and cook an additional minute. 

Once the garlic has cooked and is fragrant, stir in the chicken broth, chili powder, paprika, worcestershire sauce, and tomatoes. 

Stir together, bring to a boil over medium to medium-high heat, and cook for 5 minutes.

While cooking, drain the black beans in a colander over the sink. Drain but do not rinse the beans.

After the soup has cook for 5 minutes, stir in the drained black beans and simmer at a gentle bubble for 10 minuts. 

While the soup is cooking, wash and dry the cilantro. Remove the thick stems and roughly chop the cilantro leaves. 

Stir in the cilantro and the juice from 1/2 a lime to the soup. If you are like me and like all things citrus, feel free to use the whole lime. 

Cook the soup for an additional 10 minutes. 

Ladle the soup into a bowl and garnish with sour cream and sliced green onions.

'Till next time,
Caroline