Black bean soup is one of those comforting dishes that has become a staple in kitchens across the world. It’s the kind of soup that is both hearty and healthy, with a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a meal prep solution for the week, or simply want something satisfying and nutritious, black bean soup hits the mark every time. The beauty of black bean soup is in its simplicity – a handful of basic ingredients, a bit of seasoning, and some cooking time, and you’ve got a delicious, filling meal.
When you think about soups, many might imagine a creamy concoction or something heavy with dairy. Black bean soup, however, is typically a little on the lighter side, but it still has an incredible richness thanks to the natural depth of the beans. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients that make it the perfect choice for anyone seeking a healthy yet delicious meal.
One brand that’s popular when it comes to pre-made black bean soup is Progresso. They’ve taken this timeless dish and turned it into an easy, convenient option for busy weeknights or when you’re just not feeling like cooking from scratch. But sometimes, nothing beats a homemade version of a classic – and that’s exactly what we’re diving into today. In this recipe, I’ll walk you through how to make a Progresso-style Black Bean Soup that you can whip up at home, with a few additional tweaks to elevate it.
Progresso Black Bean Soup Recipe
So, let’s talk about making black bean soup from scratch – it’s honestly easier than you might think, and the end result is so much more flavorful than anything you can grab from a can. We’ll take the base recipe and then explore some fun variations and expert tips to make it uniquely yours. Get ready for a soup that’s savory, comforting, and packed with protein-rich black beans.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make a hearty batch of black bean soup. The good news is, it’s mostly pantry staples, and if you like to cook, you probably already have most of these at home.
Base Ingredients
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Black Beans (dried Or Canned)
- Dried beans are great if you want to control the texture and flavor more, but you’ll need to soak them overnight. Canned beans are a quick shortcut if you’re short on time.
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Onion
- Yellow or white onions will do the trick for their mild sweetness and depth of flavor. Red onion adds a little extra bite, but it’s up to your preference.
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Garlic
- Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aromatic kick to the soup. Don’t skimp on this!
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Carrots
- They add a natural sweetness and subtle crunch, balancing out the richness of the beans.
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Celery
- This adds a fresh, earthy flavor and helps build a solid base for the soup.
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Tomatoes
- Whether fresh, diced, or canned, tomatoes contribute a slight tang that brightens up the soup.
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Broth (vegetable Or Chicken)
- This is your soup’s liquid base, so choose a good-quality broth for a flavorful start. If you prefer vegetarian options, vegetable broth is great, but chicken broth adds a savory richness.
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Olive Oil
- Used for sautéing your vegetables, adding richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
Spices And Seasonings
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Cumin
- A must for that earthy, smoky flavor that elevates black beans.
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Chili Powder
- Adds a touch of heat and spice, making the soup feel warming and comforting.
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Bay Leaves
- They help deepen the overall flavor and give a subtle herbal fragrance to the broth.
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Salt & Pepper
- Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the beans and vegetables.
Optional Garnishes (for Serving)
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Sour Cream Or Greek Yogurt
- A creamy touch to cool down the heat if you’ve added extra chili powder.
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Cilantro
- Fresh cilantro gives a burst of freshness and a pop of green color.
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Lime Wedges
- A squeeze of lime right before eating brightens up the soup and adds a zesty contrast to the richness.
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Cheese
- A sprinkle of cheese (cheddar, cotija, or even crumbled queso fresco) adds saltiness and extra flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve got all our ingredients laid out, let’s dive into the cooking process. Don’t worry; it’s fairly simple, and if you follow these steps, you’ll have a pot of savory, homemade black bean soup ready in no time.
Step 1: Prepare The Beans
- If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse them before cooking.
- If you’re using canned beans, just drain and rinse them under cold water to remove excess sodium.
Step 2: Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add The Tomatoes & Spices
- Stir in your diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to break down and meld with the vegetables.
- Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to evenly coat the veggies.
Step 4: Add The Beans And Broth
- Add your prepared beans to the pot.
- Pour in the broth (about 4 cups) and throw in a couple of bay leaves.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let the soup cook for at least 45 minutes (if using dried beans, it could take longer). Check every so often to ensure it doesn’t dry out, adding more broth if necessary.
Step 5: Mash And Simmer
- For a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to mash some of the beans directly in the pot. You can mash about 1/3 to 1/2 of the beans to create a creamy texture, or leave them whole for a chunkier soup.
- Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Taste And Adjust
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want a little extra salt, more chili powder, or even a dash of vinegar to brighten it up.
Ingredient Insights
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Black Beans
Black beans are high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins like folate. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
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Broth
Broth is a flavor-building base. The better the broth, the better the soup. Homemade broth (if you have the time) is always best, but store-bought options can be great, especially if you choose ones with minimal additives and preservatives.
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Spices
Cumin is often paired with black beans for its earthy, warm, and slightly nutty flavor. Chili powder adds a nice level of heat and complexity, while bay leaves add an extra layer of herbal undertones that meld beautifully with the beans.
Expert Tips
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Use Fresh Herbs
While bay leaves are a great addition during the cooking process, using fresh cilantro or parsley at the end as a garnish can really elevate the soup and add a pop of freshness.
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Texture Is Key
You can adjust the texture by mashing the beans to your preference. If you like your soup a little more brothy, avoid mashing. If you like a thicker, heartier version, feel free to mash more beans.
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Add Heat
If you like your soup spicy, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce along with your spices.
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Make It Smoky
For a deeper, smokier flavor, try adding a small amount of smoked paprika or even a dash of liquid smoke.
Recipe Variations
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Vegetarian Version
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and avoid any meat-based garnishes (like bacon or sausage). It’s just as rich and flavorful.
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Add Protein
To make the soup even heartier, you can toss in some cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage.
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Southwestern Twist
Add corn, bell peppers, or a little chipotle pepper for a smoky southwestern flair.
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Vegan
Omit any dairy-based garnishes and use a vegan-friendly sour cream alternative. The soup is already packed with plant-based goodness.
Final Words
There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of black bean soup. It’s warm, cozy, and nourishing, with a balance of flavors that hit just right. And best of all, it’s so easy to make! Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this soup is a go-to recipe that’s sure to satisfy.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In The Progresso Black Bean Soup Recipe?
The main ingredients in the Progresso black bean soup recipe typically include black beans, vegetable broth, onions, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and a variety of seasonings to enhance the flavor. Optional ingredients can include bell peppers, cilantro, and lime juice.
Can I Make The Progresso Black Bean Soup Recipe From Scratch?
Yes, you can make the Progresso black bean soup from scratch by combining cooked black beans with vegetable or chicken broth, seasonings like cumin, garlic, and chili powder, and simmering it until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also add extra vegetables or protein if desired.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Progresso Black Bean Soup?
If you’re making the soup from scratch, it will take around 40-50 minutes to cook. This includes time for sautéing vegetables and simmering the beans in the broth. If using canned beans, the cooking time can be reduced to about 20-30 minutes.
Can I Freeze Leftover Progresso Black Bean Soup?
Yes, leftover Progresso black bean soup can be frozen. It is best to store the soup in an airtight container and consume it within 3-4 months. Make sure to cool the soup completely before freezing.
Is Progresso Black Bean Soup Gluten-free?
The Progresso black bean soup is typically gluten-free. However, if you are making the soup from scratch, be sure to check that all the ingredients, especially the broth and seasonings, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How Can I Make Progresso Black Bean Soup Spicier?
To make Progresso black bean soup spicier, you can add additional chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños. You can also increase the amount of hot sauce or use spicy vegetable broth for added heat.
What Can I Serve With Progresso Black Bean Soup?
Progresso black bean soup pairs well with various sides such as cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, a simple salad, or a dollop of sour cream. You can also add some shredded cheese, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Is The Progresso Black Bean Soup Recipe Vegan?
Yes, Progresso black bean soup is often vegan if you use vegetable broth and skip any non-vegan toppings like sour cream or cheese. Be sure to verify that all ingredients are plant-based if you’re preparing the recipe from scratch.
Can I Use Canned Black Beans In The Progresso Black Bean Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned black beans in the Progresso black bean soup recipe. Be sure to drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the soup to reduce the sodium content and improve the flavor.
How Can I Thicken Progresso Black Bean Soup?
To thicken Progresso black bean soup, you can either mash some of the beans with a potato masher or immersion blender, or you can add cornstarch or flour slurry. Another option is to let the soup simmer longer to reduce the liquid.