Jamaican Black Bean Soup

Name: Jamaican Black Bean Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh lime wedges for serving; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Black Bean Soup on chilly evenings. This dish bursts with vibrant flavors and is packed with nutritious ingredients that make it both hearty and satisfying. Over the years, I have perfected my technique to achieve a rich, smoky flavor by using spices and fresh herbs. The result is a vibrant and aromatic soup that warms the soul. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:28:07.316Z

When I first tried Jamaican Black Bean Soup, I couldn't believe how a few simple ingredients could come together to create such a vibrant and delicious meal. I experimented with spices like allspice and thyme, which really elevate the flavor profile. Every time I make it, I feel like I'm bringing a piece of the Caribbean to my kitchen.

One tip I discovered is to allow the soup to simmer for a bit after blending. It truly deepens the flavors, and adding a squeeze of lime right before serving brightens everything up. This little trick makes a world of difference, and I hope you'll try it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A robust and smoky flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Nutritious and hearty, perfect for a fulfilling meal
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the desired texture in Jamaican Black Bean Soup can be a balance between creamy and chunky. To get that perfect blend, I recommend reserving a cup of the black beans before blending. You can blend the rest until smooth, then reintroduce the reserved beans to add texture. This method gives the soup depth while ensuring you can still enjoy those hearty beans in each bite.

Another tip for a thicker consistency is to let the soup simmer without a lid for a few extra minutes towards the end. This evaporation helps concentrate the flavors and thickens the soup naturally. Just keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning the bottom. A gentle simmer on medium-low heat should do the trick.

Flavor Enhancements

For those wanting to elevate the smoky flavor profile, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder. These ingredients complement the existing spices and add another layer of depth to the dish. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Don't overlook the importance of fresh ingredients in this soup. Fresh herbs like thyme and cilantro not only brighten the dish but enhance its overall aroma. I highly recommend using fresh cilantro as a garnish, as it adds a burst of flavor right when you're ready to enjoy the soup.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Black Bean Soup pairs beautifully with a side of warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread. The bread serves as a wonderful vessel for scooping up the flavorful soup and adds a comforting element to the meal. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for a more filling option, making it a complete meal.

If you're feeling adventurous, why not try adding fresh toppings? Avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the soup to another level. Alternatively, a sprinkle of feta cheese adds a great tangy contrast to the richness of the soup, so feel free to customize according to your tastes!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a rich and flavorful Jamaican Black Bean Soup.

Ingredients

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lime wedges for serving
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you’re all set to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Jamaican Black Bean Soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Spices and Beans

Add the ground cumin, allspice, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine, then add the black beans and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy!

And there you have it, a comforting bowl of Jamaican Black Bean Soup!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. For a spicier kick, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Jamaican Black Bean Soup is straightforward. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. The soup freezes well for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave a little room in the container for expansion.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much after refrigerating or freezing, simply add a bit of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Always taste before serving, as refrigerated soups can sometimes lose their punchy flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking for a variation, feel free to swap the black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans, depending on what you have on hand. Each type of bean brings a slightly different texture and flavor profile to the soup, so don't hesitate to experiment. Additionally, for a vegan version, simply ensure that your vegetable broth is labeled vegan-friendly.

For those avoiding gluten, this soup is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the spices and broth labels. You can also add in extra vegetables like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Just stir them in for the last 5 minutes of simmering to wilt them slightly while still preserving their vibrant color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried black beans. Just make sure to soak and cook them before following the recipe.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegetarian as well.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for 1-2 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.