Jamaican Black Bean Soup

Name: Jamaican Black Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I always look forward to the comfort of a warm bowl of Jamaican Black Bean Soup, especially on chilly days. The rich flavors, paired with the warmth of spices, create a delightful experience that brings the whole family together. I love how the textures blend in this dish, with hearty beans and smooth, fragrant broth. It's not only satisfying but also a nutritious option packed with protein and fiber, making it a wonderful meal that I can feel good about serving any time of year.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:28:13.852Z

In my culinary journey, I stumbled upon Jamaican black bean soup during a visit to the Caribbean. The combination of spices and beans was both surprising and comforting. I found that the secret lies in the sautéing of garlic, onion, and bell pepper, which builds a flavorful base that sets the tone for the entire dish.

When I make this soup, I often experiment with the spice levels, adjusting the heat to my family’s taste. A little cumin and thyme can enhance the depth, while a squeeze of lime at the end brightens everything up. It’s been a crowd-pleaser at gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with every spoonful
Vibrant flavors from a blend of spices
Simple ingredients make for a quick meal

      

The Role of Spices

The spices in Jamaican Black Bean Soup create a harmonious flavor profile that elevates the dish. Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy note, while thyme provides an herbal brightness that complements the richness of the black beans. Paprika introduces a gentle sweetness and a hint of smokiness, which rounds out the aroma beautifully. It's important to cook the spices until fragrant, about one minute, to unlock their essential oils and deepen their flavors in the soup.

If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat or a splash of coconut milk to introduce a creamy texture and tropical twist. Just remember that the key is balance; adding too many spices might overpower the natural flavors of your beans. Adjusting spices can turn this soup into a unique dish every time you make it.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in Jamaican Black Bean Soup is all about balancing creamy and hearty elements. By using an immersion blender, you can create a creamy base while still keeping some whole black beans intact, adding a satisfying chew. I usually blend about half of the soup so that the final bowl has a delightful mix of smooth and chunky textures. If you don't have an immersion blender, a regular blender works, but allow the soup to cool slightly before blending for safety.

If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step altogether. This approach showcases the beans' robust texture and allows the colorful bell pepper to shine through. Just be sure to chop the bell pepper into small pieces so that they cook through and contribute subtle sweetness without dominating the dish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Black Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep! It freezes well and stays flavorful for up to three months. To store, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if it has thickened too much. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

Serving suggestions can elevate your soup experience. I recommend pairing it with warm cornbread or rice for added substance. You can also top it with creamy avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese to add richness. Fresh lime wedges on the side enhance the brightness of the soup, making each bite even more refreshing!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a rich and hearty soup!

Ingredients

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you'll be amazed at how easily it all comes together.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious meal in no time!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Spices

Stir in the cumin, thyme, and paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Beans and Broth

Add the black beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend (Optional)

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some beans whole for texture.

Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy this easy and flavorful dish with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños along with the bell pepper. Additionally, serve with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this soup even healthier or cater to dietary restrictions, consider substituting the olive oil with coconut oil for a hint of sweetness and a tropical flair. You can also swap out the vegetable broth for homemade vegetable stock to enhance depth of flavor, or if you're in a pinch, water works, adding extra seasonings to compensate.

For a more robust protein source, feel free to add cooked quinoa or lentils, which can both complement the black beans and increase the nutritional value of the dish. If you’re short on time, canned veggies like corn or diced tomatoes can be thrown into the mix during the last five minutes of cooking for added texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup turns out too thick, don’t panic! Just add a little more vegetable broth or water, stirring gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Be wary of salt levels—taste your soup before serving and adjust accordingly. If it tastes bland, a dash of soy sauce or extra lime juice can wake up the flavors without overpowering the dish.

In case your soup feels too spicy, you can mellow it out by adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt when serving. Alternatively, a spoonful of sugar can help balance the heat. It may seem counterintuitive, but a little sweetness can round out flavors effectively.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand, which will add some additional time to the recipe.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and packed with nutrients.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. Additionally, serve with hot sauce on the side.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat on the stove or in the microwave.