Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Refried Bean Delight Soup?
It is a rich and creamy soup made with refried beans, diced tomatoes, and spices, designed to be a quick and nutritious family favorite.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to heat through.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it fully vegetarian.
What kind of refried beans should I use?
You can use any 31-ounce can of refried beans, including traditional, fat-free, or vegetarian varieties.
What are Rotel tomatoes?
Rotel is a brand of canned diced tomatoes with green chilies that adds a signature zesty flavor to the soup.
How can I make this soup low-fat?
To lower the fat content, use fat-free refried beans, low-fat sour cream, and a reduced-fat shredded cheese.
What is the best way to garnish this soup?
Top with crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and a handful of shredded cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is gluten-free if you ensure your refried beans, broth, and tortilla chips are certified gluten-free.
Can I add extra spices?
Absolutely! You can add cumin or chili powder if you want an extra kick of flavor.
Should I drain the canned tomatoes?
No, the recipe calls for both the diced tomatoes and the Rotel tomatoes to be undrained.
How do I prevent lumps in the soup?
Use a whisk or a wooden spoon to break apart the refried beans as you stir them into the broth.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe specifically recommends using 2 minced garlic cloves for the best flavor.
What kind of oil should I use to sautรฉ the onions?
The recipe calls for olive oil, but any neutral cooking oil will work.
What chips go best with this soup?
The description recommends pairing it with Tostitos Hint of Lime tortilla chips for a zesty dipping experience.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.
Is this soup spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat from the Rotel tomatoes, but it is generally family-friendly.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken would make great additions.
What if the soup is too thick?
If the soup is thicker than you prefer, simply stir in a little more chicken broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I use homemade refried beans?
Yes, homemade refried beans can be substituted for the canned version.
What kind of cheese should I use for topping?
Any kind of shredded cheese works, such as Mexican blend, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Yes, its creamy texture and familiar flavors make it a hit even with pickier eaters.
How long does it take to prepare the vegetables?
Prep time is minimal as you only need to dice one small onion and mince two cloves of garlic.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, though sautรฉing the aromatics first is recommended.
What size can of chicken broth is needed?
You will need one 14.5-ounce can of chicken broth.
Can I use beef broth instead?
Yes, beef broth can be used for a slightly different, deeper flavor profile.
Does this soup contain fiber?
Yes, the refried beans and tomatoes provide a good amount of dietary fiber.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to double if you are cooking for a larger crowd.