How to Make Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe: A Colorful Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, this purple black bean soup recipe is for you. Combining the earthy richness of black beans with the vibrant hue of purple vegetables, this soup offers a unique twist on a classic comfort food.

This hearty and nutrient-packed soup features black beans, purple cabbage, red onions, and a hint of spice, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and beautiful. The deep purple tones not only make it a showstopper on the table but also indicate a wealth of antioxidants and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Perfect for chilly nights, meal prep, or a quick and easy vegan dinner, this soup is as versatile as it is flavorful. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be customized to suit your taste. Pair it with crusty bread or a dollop of vegan sour cream for the ultimate cozy meal.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Unique Appearance: The stunning purple hue from purple cabbage and red onions makes this soup a feast for the eyes.
2. Rich, Earthy Flavor: Black beans provide a hearty base, while garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika add depth and warmth.
3. Packed with Nutrients: Purple vegetables are high in antioxidants, and black beans are rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
4. Vegan and Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally free of animal products and gluten, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
5. Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add extra vegetables, or top with your favorite garnishes to make it your own.
6. Meal Prep Friendly: It stores and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
7. Easy and Quick: With minimal prep and a simple cooking process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Breakdown

Core Ingredients for Purple Black Bean Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  For sautéing the vegetables and building a flavorful base.
• 1 medium red onion, diced
  Adds sweetness and contributes to the soup’s vibrant purple hue.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
  Provides a bold, aromatic flavor.
• 2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced
  A key ingredient that enhances the soup’s color and adds a slight crunch.
• 3 cups cooked black beans (or 2 15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed)
  The star of the dish, adding protein, fiber, and a rich, earthy taste.
• 4 cups vegetable stock or water
  Creates a flavorful base for the soup.

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  Adds warmth and an earthy note.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  Infuses a subtle smokiness that complements the beans.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
  Adds a mild heat; adjust to taste.
• ½ teaspoon salt
  Enhances the overall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  Adds a hint of spice.

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
  Adds sweetness and makes the soup heartier.
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  Enhances the tanginess and rounds out the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
  Balances the richness of the beans with a touch of acidity.

Garnishes (Optional)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Vegan sour cream or plain yogurt
• Sliced avocado
• Crumbled tortilla chips or cornbread

Pro Tips for Success

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh purple cabbage and red onions to ensure the soup’s vibrant color and optimal flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Acid: A splash of lime juice or apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the beans.
3. Adjust the Texture: For a chunkier soup, leave it unblended. For a creamy texture, partially or fully blend the soup. You can also stir in a splash of coconut milk for added creaminess.
4. Cook Your Own Beans: While canned beans are convenient, cooking dried black beans adds a richer flavor and allows you to control the texture and salt.
5. Season Gradually: Start with less salt and spices, then adjust as the soup simmers and the flavors develop.
6. Add Sweet Potatoes or Corn: These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness.
7. Meal Prep Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
8. Freeze for Later: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Variants of the Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

1. Southwest-Inspired Purple Black Bean Soup
   Add a cup of corn kernels, diced green chilies, and a teaspoon of oregano. Garnish with shredded cheese and tortilla strips for a Tex-Mex twist.
2. Spicy Purple Black Bean Soup
   Include a diced jalapeño or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. Pair with a cooling avocado garnish.
3. Purple Black Bean Coconut Soup
   Stir in ½ cup of coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a creamy and tropical variation.
4. Protein-Packed Purple Black Bean Soup
   Add a cup of cooked quinoa or farro to the soup for an extra boost of protein and texture.
5. Tomato-Based Purple Black Bean Soup
   Stir in a cup of diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to create a tangy, tomato-infused version of the soup.
6. Purple Black Bean and Kale Soup
   Toss in a handful of chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added greens and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

1. With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a loaf of crusty bread, sourdough, or baguette for dipping into the flavorful broth.
2. Over Rice or Quinoa: Ladle the soup over cooked rice or quinoa for a hearty, complete meal.
3. Topped with Avocado: Add sliced avocado for creaminess and a vibrant contrast to the soup’s rich purple hue.
4. With Cornbread: Pair with a slice of warm, buttery cornbread to complement the soup’s hearty texture.
5. As a Topping: Use the soup as a topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes for a fun and filling twist.
6. With a Fresh Salad: Pair the soup with a light salad, such as mixed greens with citrus vinaigrette, for a balanced meal.
7. In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and pour the soup inside for an eye-catching presentation.
8. For a Party: Serve in small cups or bowls as an appetizer with tortilla chips on the side for dipping.

Recipe Card

Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

Recipe by SimonCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

200

kcal

This purple black bean soup recipe is as beautiful as it is nutritious. With earthy black beans, vibrant purple cabbage, and a hint of spice, it’s the perfect hearty and healthy meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium red onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced

• 3 cups cooked black beans (or 2 15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed)

• 4 cups vegetable stock or water

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
  ½ teaspoon salt
  ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice (optional)

• Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 medium sweet potato, diced

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

• Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• Vegan sour cream or plain yogurt

• Sliced avocado

• Crumbled tortilla chips or cornbread

Directions

• Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add Cabbage and Spices: Add the purple cabbage to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Combine Beans and Stock: Stir in the black beans and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
• Adjust Texture: For a creamier soup, partially blend with an immersion blender or blend half the soup and return it to the pot.
• Finish and Serve: Stir in apple cider vinegar or lime juice (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings. Serve warm.

Notes

• For extra protein, add a cup of cooked quinoa or farro.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs about Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe

This purple black bean soup recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you serve it as a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer, this vibrant soup is sure to impress.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your feedback in the comments below, and tag us on social media to show off your colorful creation! If you loved this, don’t miss our Swamp Soup Recipe for another comforting meal.