Savory Cuban Black Bean and Chorizo Soup
Experience the bold and rich flavors of this Savory Cuban Black Bean and Chorizo Soup, a delightful dish that combines hearty black beans with smoky chorizo, crispy bacon, and aromatic spices. Perfect for chilly days or as a comforting meal any time of year, this soup invites warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. Ideal for sharing with friends and family, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
dried black beans
1 lb (Rinse and soak as directed)
fresh chorizo sausage
1/2 lb (Remove casing)
sliced bacon
1/2 lb (Cut crosswise into 1/4-inch strips)
onion
1 small (Chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (Minced)
dried oregano
1 teaspoon (Dried)
chili powder
1 teaspoon (Dried)
ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon (Ground)
low sodium chicken broth
4 cups (Liquid)
diced tomatoes
1 (14 ounce) can (With juice)
cream sherry
2 tablespoons (N/A)
chopped cilantro
1/2 cup (Fresh, chopped)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cuban Black Bean and Chorizo Soup?
It is a rich and hearty soup that combines dried black beans with smoky chorizo, crispy bacon, and aromatic Cuban-style spices.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include dried black beans, fresh chorizo sausage, sliced bacon, onion, garlic, and various spices like cumin and oregano.
How should I prepare the dried black beans?
The dried black beans should be rinsed and soaked as directed prior to starting the soup base.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
While the recipe calls for 1 lb of dried beans, you can substitute with approximately three 15-ounce cans of black beans, though the texture and cooking time will vary.
What type of chorizo is best for this soup?
Fresh chorizo sausage is recommended. Be sure to remove the casing before cooking.
How should the bacon be prepared for the soup?
The bacon should be sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch strips before being added to the dish.
Is this soup spicy?
The soup has a mild to moderate heat depending on the specific chorizo and chili powder used, providing a savory warmth.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
To make it vegetarian, omit the chorizo and bacon, use a meat-free sausage alternative, and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your chorizo and chicken broth labels to ensure no gluten-based fillers are present.
What kind of broth is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of low sodium chicken broth to provide a savory base without making the soup too salty.
What is the purpose of adding cream sherry?
Cream sherry adds a layer of complexity and a hint of sweetness that balances the smoky flavors of the chorizo and bacon.
Can I substitute the cream sherry?
If you don't have cream sherry, you can use a dry white wine or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, this soup is excellent for meal prep as the flavors often deepen and improve after being stored in the refrigerator for a day.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
Can I freeze Cuban black bean and chorizo soup?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
What are common toppings for this soup?
Freshly chopped cilantro is recommended, but you could also add sour cream, avocado slices, or diced red onions.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot during the final stages of cooking.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the meat and aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function for the meats and aromatics, then pressure cook the soaked beans and broth for about 30 minutes.
What aromatic vegetables are included?
The recipe uses one small chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves to build the flavor foundation.
What spices give it a Cuban flavor?
A combination of dried oregano, ground cumin, and chili powder provides the traditional Cuban flavor profile.
Do I need to drain the tomatoes?
No, use the 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes with their juice to add liquid and flavor to the soup.
How much cilantro is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of fresh, chopped cilantro, which adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
What should I serve with this soup?
It pairs perfectly with white rice, crusty bread, or warm corn tortillas.
Why should I rinse the black beans?
Rinsing removes dust, debris, and excess starch, ensuring a cleaner flavor and better texture in the finished soup.
Is this soup considered a healthy meal?
While high in fiber and protein from the beans, the chorizo and bacon add sodium and fat, so it is a hearty and indulgent comfort food.
Can I use different types of beans?
While black beans are traditional, kidney beans or pinto beans could be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change.
How many people does this recipe serve?
The recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people depending on the serving size.
Does the chorizo need to be cooked separately?
Usually, the chorizo is browned in the pot first to release its oils and flavor before adding the other ingredients.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe because it primarily involves basic preparation of ingredients and simmering in one pot.