Jamaican Black Bean Soup

Name: Jamaican Black Bean Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can diced tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Black Bean Soup because it brings a comforting taste of the Caribbean into my kitchen. The rich flavors of the spices and the heartiness of the black beans make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Every time I prepare this soup, I am reminded of the vibrant colors and warm aromas that fill my home. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed on its own or with your favorite sides. If you're looking for a nutritious dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this is the one!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:43:14.613Z

Whenever I find myself craving something hearty, I turn to my Jamaican Black Bean Soup recipe. The secret lies in the blend of spices that dance around in the simmering pot, creating a flavor explosion. I like to let it cook long enough for the beans to become tender and soak up all the seasonings. This not only enhances the texture but also deepens the overall taste.

I've experimented with different garnishes, but I always come back to freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime. These additions brighten the dish perfectly and elevate it to a new level. It’s the kind of soup that warms the soul and brings so much joy to the table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for cold days
Bursting with bold Caribbean flavors
Easy to customize with your favorite spices and toppings

      

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

One of the standout features of Jamaican Black Bean Soup is its deep flavor, primarily derived from the combination of spices and fresh vegetables. The cumin and coriander play pivotal roles, delivering warmth and earthiness that complement the black beans beautifully. When sautéing the vegetables, aim for them to become just tender and slightly caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness and adds complexity to the broth.

For an extra kick, consider adjusting the cayenne pepper to your taste. You can increase the quantity for added heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder soup. Additionally, a splash of soy sauce or a dash of hot sauce can be incorporated during the simmering phase, enhancing the umami notes and enriching the overall flavor and depth.

Don't overlook the importance of seasoning as you cook. Regularly taste your soup, especially after adding the vegetable broth and black beans, as this will guide you in adjusting the salt and pepper levels to achieve a well-rounded flavor.

Making the Soup Your Own

This recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. For instance, if you're looking to add more vegetables, diced zucchini or sweet potatoes can pair wonderfully with the beans and spices. If you want a protein boost, shredded cooked chicken or tofu can also be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.

For a different flavor twist, consider swapping in smoked paprika instead of cayenne. This substitution introduces a delightful smokiness that can elevate the taste, providing a unique variation on the traditional Caribbean flavors. You can also add a can of corn for a touch of sweetness and texture.

When it comes to toppings, don't hesitate to get creative! Beyond fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream can enhance the creaminess of the soup, while crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Jamaican Black Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep since it freezes beautifully. After cooling completely, store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You might need to add a splash more vegetable broth to adjust the consistency.

If you want to enjoy the soup throughout the week, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just remember to let it cool down before transferring it to a container to prevent condensation and potential spoilage. As it sits, the flavors will meld, often making it even tastier the next day!

For a quick meal, pair the soup with a grain like quinoa or rice, adding additional fiber and making it even more filling. This combination not only extends the servings but also creates a beautiful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add Spices and Beans

Stir in the cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional minute. Then, add in the vegetable broth, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Black Bean Soup!

Don't forget your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a dash of hot sauce for some heat!

Ingredient Insights

The base of this soup is the black beans, which are not only hearty but also rich in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option. When selecting canned black beans, look for brands that are low in sodium or no salt added, as this allows you to control the salt content in the soup more effectively.

Using fresh garlic cloves is key to achieving that robust flavor that complements the dish. However, if you're short on time, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but you'll want to add it later in the cooking process to avoid it becoming too bitter from prolonged heat.

The diced tomatoes not only contribute acidity, balancing the rich flavors, but also provide moisture. If you're in a pinch, crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste can be utilized, although you may need to adjust the liquid amounts to maintain the desired soup consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the soup turns out too thick for your liking, simply add a little more vegetable broth or water, stirring until the desired consistency is reached. This is especially helpful if you plan to enjoy leftovers, as it may thicken after sitting in the fridge.

Should you find that the flavors are not as robust as expected, consider simmering the soup longer to build depth or adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Acid can work wonders in rounding out the taste, especially in bean dishes.

If you find yourself with a soup that’s overly salty, adding a diced potato while it simmers can help absorb excess salt. Just be sure to remove the potato once it’s cooked through to salvage the dish without affecting the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Jamaican Black Bean Soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or fluffy rice for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top can also provide a nice creaminess that contrasts with the spiciness of the soup.

For an added zing, consider squeezing fresh lime juice over the soup right before serving. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but it also adds a bright, fresh element that balances the rich beans and spices beautifully.

If you want to turn this soup into a festive dish, serve it in hollowed-out avocado halves or alongside a colorful salad topped with tropical fruits like mango or pineapple. This combination not only provides a visual feast but also complements the Caribbean theme perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Jamaican Black Bean Soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

You can increase the cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño during the vegetable sauté for a nice kick.

→ Is this soup suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.