Jamaican Black Bean Soup

Name: Jamaican Black Bean Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 carrot, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tried Jamaican Black Bean Soup, I was captivated by the vibrant flavors that danced on my palate. The heat from the spices, complemented by the earthiness of the black beans and the sweetness of the vegetables, creates a symphony of taste that warms both the soul and the stomach. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a wonderfully hearty meal any day of the week. I particularly love serving it with a splash of lime for that perfect zesty finish!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:58:11.457Z

When I first tackled the recipe for Jamaican Black Bean Soup, I was both excited and a bit intimidated by the number of spices involved. After a bit of experimenting, I discovered that blending the spices with sautéed onions and garlic creates a depth of flavor that permeates through each bite. It’s an essential step that I highly recommend, as it transforms the soup from good to absolutely extraordinary.

I often garnish it with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of coconut milk, which adds a creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the smoky and spicy notes of the soup. Believe me, the combination is nothing short of fantastic!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Richly spiced with a hint of smokiness from the paprika
Creamy texture from the black beans that’s incredibly satisfying
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Texture

The creamy texture of Jamaican Black Bean Soup comes primarily from the black beans, which not only provide protein but also create a rich, velvety consistency when blended. This smoothness can be adjusted based on your preference; if you enjoy a chunkier soup, consider reserving a portion of the beans to add back in after blending. This makes for a delightful contrast that enhances both flavor and mouthfeel.

When using an immersion blender, make sure to blend the soup just until it’s smooth and creamy but not completely puréed. Over-blending can make the soup overly thick, diminishing its original textures. If you find the consistency too thick after blending, simply add a bit more vegetable broth until you reach your desired thickness.

Ingredient Versatility

The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability. If you don't have black beans on hand, kidney beans or pinto beans can be used as excellent substitutes without compromising the overall flavor profile. For a heartier meal, adding cooked quinoa or brown rice can elevate the dish and increase its nutritional value.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the vegetable base as well. While onion, garlic, and bell pepper are foundational, adding corn or zucchini can enhance the soup’s sweetness and texture. Each variation brings distinct flavors, so feel free to adjust based on what's available in your pantry.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Black Bean Soup is an ideal make-ahead meal, as its flavors deepen and improve when allowed to sit. You can prepare the soup up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the best quality.

If you're looking to freeze the soup for longer storage, it holds up well in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a flavorful and comforting soup.

Ingredients

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 carrot, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a deliciously creamy soup.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add Spices

Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rinsed black beans and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Blend Soup

Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.

Finish and Serve

Stir in lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Black Bean Soup with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of coconut milk just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, I love to serve Jamaican Black Bean Soup with warm crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. This combination not only satisfies but also enhances the rustic flavors of the soup. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also add a tangy contrast to the spicy soup, enriching each spoonful.

Consider topping the finished soup with sliced avocado or a sprinkle of crunchy tortilla chips for added texture. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad, featuring lime dressing to complement the soup's zesty finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out too salty, adding a small potato during the simmering stage can help absorb some of that excess sodium. Just remove it before blending and discard once cooked. Similarly, if you want to decrease the heat but have already added cayenne pepper, a spoonful of honey or sugar can balance out the spice effectively.

For those who find the soup too thick, remember that adjustability is key. Always start with less vegetable broth while cooking, then gradually add more during blending until the texture matches your liking. This approach not only allows for a tailored recipe but also aids in avoiding an overly soupy outcome.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time.

→ Is this soup vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like corn or zucchini.