Picture this: you’re walking down the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro, surrounded by colorful buildings and the sounds of samba music. You stop for lunch at a local restaurant and are presented with a steaming bowl of rich black bean soup, topped with a sprinkle of cilantro and served with a side of tangy salsa. This is the iconic Brazilian dish, feijoada – a hearty stew traditionally made with smoked pork and black beans.

If you’ve never had the pleasure of experiencing feijoada in Brazil, don’t worry. I’m here to bring the taste of this beloved dish to your own kitchen with my Brazilian Black Bean Soup recipe. This soup is packed with flavor and is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy night in to an impressive dinner party.

The star ingredient in this recipe is undoubtedly black beans – rich, nutritious legumes that are popular all over Latin America. When simmered together with onions, garlic, bell pepper, and cumin, the result is a velvety-smooth soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Whether you’ve visited Brazil or not, my Brazilian Black Bean Soup recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and transport you to sunny Sao Paulo. So grab your ingredients and get ready to experience the best that Brazilian cuisine has to offer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

My friends, allow me to share with you a true gem of a recipe: Brazilian Black Bean Soup. A staple of Brazilian cuisine, this soup is incredibly rich and flavorful, and it will become one of your favorites too.

First off, let’s talk about the ingredients. This dish owes its name to the main ingredient – black beans. They’re the star of the show, providing a deep, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of other ingredients. You’ll also find that this soup includes garlic cloves, onions, cumin, and bell pepper. These spices come together brilliantly to create an explosion of flavors in every bite.

But that’s not all: we add some vegetables to our recipe too! Carrots and tomatoes provide color and freshness while balancing out the heavier notes of the other elements. And don’t forget about cilantro – it adds sharp, tangy flavors that brighten up each spoonful!

Now, let’s talk about the texture of this soup. It is hearty without being heavy – black beans are rich in protein and fiber giving you energy while making you feel satiated for hours. The soup also has just enough thickness to it – perfect for savoring with a spoon.

To make things even better? This dish is healthy! It can easily be made vegan by skipping meat stock or sour cream toppings – but even so remains satisfying and delicious

All in all, Brazilian Black Bean Soup is a popular Brazilian dish you simply must try. Its simple yet complex flavors come together in perfect harmony creating an irresistibly comforting stew traditionally made with smoked pork parts (or make it your own-substitute meat products like pork-free chorizo). The recipe provided here is so quick and easy that anyone will be able to prepare this amazing soup at home! So come on, give it a try – Viva Brazil!

Ingredient List

Warm your soul with a bowl of this hearty Brazilian black bean soup.

Here is a list of must-have ingredients for our Brazilian Black Bean Soup Recipe:

1 pound of dried black beans
8 cups of water and 2 cups of water for later
3 cloves of garlic minced or crushed
1 onion chopped
1 bell pepper chopped
1 carrot chopped
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon of cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of olive oil, and more to drizzle
Cayenne pepper to taste (optional)

For serving:

Salsa
Cilantro
Sour cream
Tomatoes

These ingredients are the essential items that you need to make this popular Brazilian dish, which is a rich stew traditionally made with smoked pork. However, our version is vegan, and we will make it using only vegetables.

The Recipe How-To

The aroma of garlic, onions, and spices will fill your kitchen as you prepare this delicious soup.

Preparation: Before we begin preparing the Brazilian black bean soup, it’s essential to note that this soup involves pre-soaked dried black beans. Ideally, you should soak the black beans overnight, but If you’re in a rush, you could soak them for about six hours.

Step 1: Sauté Ingredients

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and stir until softened, about five minutes. After the onions are soft, add chopped bell pepper and grated carrot. Stir until vegetables are tender and fragrant for about ten minutes.

Next, add three cloves garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Sauté this mixture for two minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook Beans

After prepping the vegetables, add 8 cups of water, soaked-black-beans, two bay leaves to the pot with the vegetables. Bring the mixture to boil over high heat. Once boiling point is reached reduced heat to low and let it simmer. Cover with a lid and continue simmering for two hours or until beans are soft but not pureed.

Step 3: Finish Preparing Soup

After two hours of simmering black beans in the vegetable mixture, remove bay leaves from the pot. Add chopped tomatoes to the bean mixture and continue going for about ten minutes.

At this stage, use an immersion blender or transfer some of the soup into a blender and blend it until smooth.

Serve hot with fresh cilantro leaves and sour cream as toppings.

This Brazilian Black Bean Soup recipe is perfect as a vegan dinner or lunch option or paired with rice as a side dish to meat.

Now sit down at your table set with warm crusty bread on a cold winter day, and enjoy your hearty, healthy, and inexpensive soup.

Substitutions and Variations

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a meal that's both nutritious and flavorful. — With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful.

As a chef, I know that modifying a recipe can add new nuances of flavor to any dish. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this delicious Brazilian black bean soup recipe.

Firstly, you can add some cayenne pepper or black pepper to infuse a little bit of heat into the soup. If you prefer milder flavors, you can omit both types of pepper altogether.

If you’re looking to make this soup vegan, feel free to skip the smoked pork traditionally used in Brazilian feijoada and instead use vegan bacon or smoked tofu. Doing so will also help make this dish less high in cholesterol and more suitable for various dietary needs.

Additionally, if you want to add more vegetables to your diet alongside your bean soup, you can mix in diced bell pepper and carrot for an extra crunch of texture. If you dislike these vegetables or have other favorite veggies on hand, substitute those that you enjoy.

For those who enjoy a little bit of tanginess and acidity in their dishes, serve with a dollop of sour cream and/or tomato salsa. Garnish your soup with freshly chopped cilantro for an herbaceous twist of flavor profile.

Lastly, this dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice or a side salad. You can serve it as is, but its flavor intensifies the next day after warming up on low heat; so be sure to save leftovers!

By personalizing this Brazilian black bean soup recipe according to aesthetic preferences and dietary restrictions, it ensures any version made will still taste delicious. Just keep experimenting until you find what works for you.

Serving and Pairing

Customize the garnish to your liking with toppings like avocado, sour cream, and cilantro.

When it comes to serving Brazilian black bean soup, the possibilities are endless! This hearty and flavorful soup pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings and sides, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends.

For starters, I highly recommend topping your soup with a generous dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa. This adds an extra layer of creaminess and tanginess that complements the bold flavors of the black beans.

For some added crunch, try garnishing your soup with some freshly chopped cilantro or diced tomatoes. The bright colors and fresh flavors of these ingredients help to balance out the rich and savory nature of the soup.

If you’re looking for something to serve alongside your soup, consider whipping up a batch of Brazilian-style rice or a simple side salad. Both options provide a fresh and light contrast to the hearty black bean stew.

And if you’re feeling particularly indulgent, why not serve your Brazilian black bean soup alongside some crusty bread or even a side of bacon? The salty smokiness of bacon pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the soup, while crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the broth.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Brazilian black bean soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your favorite toppings and sides, sit back, and enjoy this delicious national dish – viva Brazil!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

This soup is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, and can easily be made vegan.

As with most soups and stews, Brazilian Black Bean Soup can be made ahead of time, making it a great dish to serve for company or to meal prep for your week. Once the soup has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to reheat it. The flavors will only deepen and meld together more if stored overnight.

When reheating leftovers, do so over low heat, so that the soup doesn’t come to a boil too quickly. This way you’ll avoid losing any nuances in flavor that developed while resting overnight. You can either do this on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot all the way through.

If freezing the soup, let it cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Don’t forget to label each container with the name of the soup and date of freezing.

To thaw and reheat frozen Black Bean Soup, remove a portion from the freezer and place it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat using one of the methods mentioned above, adjusting cooking time as needed based on how much you are reheating.

Regardless of whether eating leftovers or reheating frozen soup, if you find your soup slightly thickened after being stored in your refrigerator/freezer, just add a splash of water or broth when reheating.

It’s almost comforting to have black bean soup waiting for you in your fridge or freezer when dinnertime comes around. So feel free to make a bit extra next time; leftovers store beautifully!

Tips for Perfect Results

Don't skip the overnight soaking of the beans - it's essential to getting the perfect texture. — Don’t skip the overnight soaking of the beans – it’s essential to getting the perfect texture.

Brazilian black bean soup is a hearty dish that requires careful attention to detail to achieve the perfect results. Here are some tips for getting it just right every time:

1. Soak the beans overnight

It’s important to soak the black beans overnight in water to reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. This step also helps make the beans soft and tender.

2. Use smoked pork for more flavor

If you want to add some smoky flavor to your soup, use smoked pork instead of regular pork or bacon. The smokiness will help enhance the taste of the beans and give your soup a unique flavor.

3. Cook the onions until they’re translucent

When sautéing onions for your soup, make sure to cook them until they become translucent. This will help enhance their natural sweetness and add depth of flavor to your dish.

4. Use fresh cilantro for garnishing

Fresh cilantro is an excellent herb for adding color and freshness to your soup. Add a few tablespoons of chopped cilantro on top of each serving just before serving, and let its aroma fill the air.

5. Adjust salt and spices to taste

Black bean soup can be seasoned with a variety of spices such as cumin, garlic, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Be sure to adjust the spice level according to your preference, and don’t forget to taste test after each addition.

With these simple tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a delicious, flavorful, and authentic Brazilian black bean soup every time!

FAQ

Before wrapping up, let’s address some common concerns and questions you might have while preparing this delicious and hearty Brazilian black bean soup recipe. In this FAQ section, I’ll provide you with answers and tips to make sure your soup turns out perfect every time. So, keep reading to clear any doubts and enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that will take you to the heart of Brazil.

What is Brazil’s national dish?

Feijoada is a hearty stew made from black beans and various cuts of salted and smoked pork and beef. It is a traditional dish that often includes less expensive cuts of meat such as pig’s ears, feet, and tails, as well as beef tongue.

What popular Brazilian dish owes its name to its main ingredient black beans?

The name of the famous Brazilian dish Feijoada is derived from its primary component, black beans. This hearty stew contains an array of meaty goodness including smoked meats, feet, ears, and bacon.

Are Brazilian beans healthy?

Beans, a nutritious and versatile legume, are a staple in Brazilian cuisine, often incorporated into the country’s most beloved dish: rice and beans. Packed with protein and high in fiber while being low in fat, beans offer an excellent addition to any diet.

Why is my black bean soup bitter?

When making black bean soup, it’s common to encounter a bitter taste. To avoid this, it’s important to add the right amount of salt. The recipe recommends using one tablespoon, but keep in mind that you should taste the soup at the end and add more salt if necessary. This will depend on how salty your bacon is and your personal preference.

Is black bean soup good for constipation?

Black beans offer a good amount of dietary fiber, which can potentially aid in relieving constipation caused by select chemotherapy treatments and supportive medicines.

Bottom Line

Viva Brazil! This Brazilian Black Bean Soup recipe will surely leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. The ingredients are rich, flavorful and will transport you right to the streets of Brazil. Not only is the dish a national treasure of Brazil, but it’s also easy to make at home and doesn’t require too much effort.

With this recipe, you can now enjoy a bowl of the popular Brazilian dish, Feijoada, in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re vegan or prefer meat, this dish can be customized to fit your preferences. Plus, with some planning ahead, this recipe can be an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights or lazy weekend afternoons.

Remember, whether you’re enjoying this soup with some salsa and cilantro or sour cream and tomatoes, the flavors will undoubtedly please your taste buds. So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some Brazilian tunes and get ready to whip up a pot of rich and delicious Brazilian Black Bean Soup. Viva Brazil!

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About Dora @ Kitchen on Cary

Dora

Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.

Hearty Brazilian Black Bean Soup Recipe