Name: Instant Pot Black Bean Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups dried black beans (About 400g.); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 piece bell pepper (red or green), diced; 2 carrots carrots, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 6 cups vegetable broth or water (About 1.5 liters.); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 piece bay leaf; to taste salt and pepper; for garnish fresh cilantro (Optional.); for serving lime wedges (Optional.)

Blаck bеan soup are a dish loads of folks love . It tastes so rich , and it feels warm on a cold day . It's loaded wіth protеin , fіber , and other vitamins that help keep you full and healthy . You find it in kitchens around the world , from Latin America to right here . It's great for vegetarians , vegans , or just anyone wanting a simple hearty meal .

Then there is the Інstant Pot , a magic pot that cook beans real fast . You don't need to soak them all day or wait forever . The pressure cooking locks in flavour and nutrients , so your soup taste better and it’s ready in about an hour .

Below , we ll show you step by step how to make this tаsty soup in the Instant Pot . Even if you never cooked before , these tips and tricks will helps you nail it . You can change spices or toppings to make it your own . Get ready for a simple recipe that you ll want to make again and again .

Health Benefits of Black Bean Soup

Black bеan soup isn't just yummy ; it's a nutrition powerhouse . Black beans give you about 15 grams of protеin per cup when they are cooked . That makes this soup a great pick if you wanna eat more protein without meat .

They also pack in around 15 grams of fіber per cup . Fiber is super for your stomach , helps you poop regularly , and keep you feeling full longer . More fiber can even help lower cholesterol and cut heart disease risks .

Plus , black beans carry iron , magnesium , potassium , and folate . Iron helps move oxygen in your blood , and potassium keeps your blood pressure in check . These goodies help your body work its best .

Cooking beans old-school sometimes leaks vitamins into the water . But pressure cooking in the Instant Pot seals in flavors and nutrients . So you get more of the good stuff in every bowl .

Ingredients for Instant Pot Black Bean Soup

To make your Instant Pot black bean soup , you need these ingredients :

Black beans : Use dried beans for more flavor but they take longer to cook or grab canned beans if you want speed .
Onions & Garlic : Dice them small so they cook quick and make the base tasty .
Cumin & Chili Powder : Add a teaspoon or two , adjust to your taste .
Veggies : Bell peppers , tomatoes , or corn add a nice pop of color and flavor .
Broth or water : Vegetable or chicken broth makes it richer . Water works fine too .
Toppings : Sour cream , cilantro , lime wedge , or avocado to finish it .

Its best to pick low-salt or organic options if you can . They boost taste without tons of sodium .

Step-by-Step Recipe for Instant Pot Black Bean Soup

Preparation

First , if you're using dried beans , soak them in water for at least 6 hours or overnight . This cuts cook time and makes them easier to digest . If you're in a hurry , use canned beans but rinse and drain them well .

While beans soak , chop your onions , garlic , peppers , and any other veggies . Measure your spices so you can add them quick . Having everything ready makes cooking smooth .

Cooking Instructions

1. Press 'Sauté' on the Instant Pot . Add oil and the chopped onions and garlic . Cook 3 minutes or until onions look clear .

2. Add beans , peppers , cumin , chili powder , and salt . Stir it all so spices stick to veggies .

3. Pour in 4 cups of broth or water . Make sure beans and veggies are covered . Close lid and set valve to 'Sealing' .

4. Choose 'Pressure Cook' for 30 minutes if beans were soaked , or 40 minutes if not soaked . Let pressure drop naturally for 15 minutes or use quick release .

Tips for Perfect Soup

For a creamier soup , mash some beans or use an immersion blender to blend part of it . This make it thick and smooth .

Want thinner soup ? Add more broth . Want thicker ? Use less liquid . Taste and add salt or spices if needed .

Variations of Instant Pot Black Bean Soup

You can change this soup lot of ways :

Mexican Style : add corn , avocado , and queso fresco .
Extra Spicy : toss in jalapeños or cayenne .
Vegan & Gluten-Free : use coconut milk for creaminess and check labels .
Hearty : stir in cooked rice or quinoa for a filling meal .

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days . You can also freeze it for 3 months .

Reheat on the stove over medium heat , stir now and then . If it's too thick , add water or broth . You can also zap it in the microwave but cover it .

Serving Suggestions

Toppings : Cheese , sour cream , avocado , or cilantro .
Bread : serve with crusty bread or cornbread .
Salad : a green salad or coleslaw adds crunch and freshness .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned beans instead of dried ? Yes , just rinse and drain them first .

How long to cook beans in the Instant Pot ? Soaked beans need about 30 minutes ; unsoaked need about 40 .

Can I freeze this soup ? Sure , it freezes well for up to 3 months .

What if I don't have an Instant Pot ? Use a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 on high .

How do I boost the flavor ? Try smoked paprika , chipotle pepper , fresh herbs , or a squeeze of lime .

Conclusion

Black bean soup is simple , tasty , and good for you . The Instant Pot makes it even easier . Try the basic recipe or add your own twist . You ll have a bowl of soup ready with little fuss . Enjoy !