Black Bean And Corn Soup Recipe – Try Exciting Flavor Combinations.

by Julia
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July 13, 2023

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Indulge in the bold flavors of our black bean and corn soup recipe, a deliciously hearty and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any season. The earthy black beans and sweet, juicy corn kernels are a match made in heaven, creating a delightful contrast in every spoonful. This soup is lovingly simmered with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of savory spices, resulting in a rich, flavorful broth that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling content and nourished from the inside out.

Savor the delightful dance of flavors in our luscious black bean and corn soup recipe, a symphony of wholesome goodness in every bite. This soul-warming dish, brimming with robust black beans and juicy corn kernels, beckons food lovers seeking nourishment and comfort.

As you explore its layers, you’ll uncover a blend of hearty ingredients, thoughtfully chosen spices, and a secret twist that elevates this classic combination.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s both healthy and tantalizing? Delve into our masterfully crafted recipe – your taste buds will thank you! Experience, relish, and share this special dish today!

What Is Black Bean And Corn Soup?

Black bean and corn soup is a hearty, nutritious dish inspired by Latin American cuisine. It marries the earthy flavor of black beans with the natural sweetness of corn, harmoniously brought together by aromatic spices and herbs.

Many variations include ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, adding depth and texture. This soup is delightful to the palate and packed with fiber and protein.

It’s a versatile comfort food adaptable to personal tastes, often garnished with avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

The beauty of Black Bean and Corn Soup lies in its versatility. Here’s how you can modify the recipe for various diets:

Keto Omit the corn and beans, which are high in carbs. Add more ground turkey and low-carb veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Use a sugar-free barbecue sauce.
Paleo Replace the beans with diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Ensure the barbecue sauce is paleo-friendly (no added sugars or preservatives).
Gluten-Free This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check labels on canned items and barbecue sauce for any hidden gluten.
Whole30 Use compliant barbecue sauce with no added sugars, replace beans with more veggies such as carrots or bell peppers, and ensure your chicken stock is Whole30 compliant.
Vegetarian/Vegan Replace the ground turkey with a plant-based meat substitute or add extra beans and veggies for a hearty vegan option. Use vegetables instead of chicken stock, skip the optional sour cream, or use a vegan alternative.

Recipe Direction

Preparation: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion and prepare your garnishes, if using.
Cooking: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up as it browns. Once the turkey is fully cooked, add the chopped onion and green chiles, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Adding Ingredients: Stir in the barbecue sauce, ensuring the turkey is well coated. Next, mix the black beans, corn, and canned tomato. Pour in the chicken stock, and bring the soup to a simmer.
Seasoning: Add your shakes of green Tabasco, then season with kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste.
Simmering: Let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will be.
Blending (Optional): For a thicker soup, blend a portion using an immersion or standing blender, then mix it back into the pot.
Final Touches: Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Tabasco to taste.
Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves, and toasted tortillas if desired.
Additional Options: You could add cooked shredded chicken or top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra protein. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable stock instead of chicken.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground turkey with chicken, beef, or even a meatless substitute for a vegetarian version. Chunks of ham or chorizo can add a smoky flavor.
Beans: Swap black beans with kidney, pinto, or navy beans for a slightly different taste and texture.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and crunch.

Add-Ons

Rice or Quinoa: A spoonful of cooked rice or quinoa can make the soup even more filling.
Greens: Stir in some chopped kale, spinach, or collard greens for an extra boost of vitamins.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different seasonings like cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika to alter the flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also add a refreshing touch.

Toppings

Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a crumble of queso fresco can add a delightful creamy texture.
Avocado: Diced avocado provides a creamy contrast to the hearty soup.
Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips can add a satisfying crunch.
Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten up the flavors.
Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo: These can lend a refreshing and tangy twist.

Can I Make Black Bean And Corn Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

The Black Bean and Corn Soup recipe can be easily adapted for a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. Here are simplified steps for both methods:

Slow Cooker

Brown your ground turkey and onions in a pan on the stove, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Add the remaining ingredients: green chiles, barbecue sauce, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and chicken stock. Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Before serving, add your jalapeño Tabasco, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Serve with your desired garnishes.

Instant Pot

Use the ‘Sauté’ function to directly brown your ground turkey and onions in the Instant Pot.
Add the remaining ingredients: green chiles, barbecue sauce, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and chicken stock. Stir to combine.
Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high pressure for about 15 minutes.
After the cooking cycle, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
Stir in your jalapeño Tabasco, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
Serve with your desired garnishes.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can use store-bought broth for making Black Bean and Corn Soup, and it’s a great time-saver. Just look for a good-quality broth, preferably one low in sodium, to control your soup’s salt level more precisely.

However, if you have the time and resources, making your broth can elevate the flavor of your soup to the next level. Homemade broth allows you to control every aspect of the flavor profile, and it’s often more nutritious since it isn’t as processed. You can make a big batch and freeze it in portions for later use.

In short, while homemade broth can enhance your soup, the store-bought broth is entirely acceptable and can still produce a delicious result. Choose the option that best fits your schedule and cooking style.

How To Serve?

Black Bean and Corn Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways:

Bowl of Comfort: Serve the soup hot in a large bowl as a comforting main course. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Soup & Sandwich: For a hearty lunch, serve a smaller portion of the soup alongside a sandwich or wrap.
Garnishes: Top the soup with fresh cilantro leaves, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or avocado slices for added flavor and creaminess. Remember a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
Crunchy Toppings: Add some crunch with a handful of crushed tortilla chips or strips of toasted tortillas.
Heat Add-Ons: For those who love a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapenos.
In a Bread Bowl: For a fun and edible presentation, serve the soup in a bread bowl.

Perfect Side Dishes

Crusty Bread: A simple side of fresh, warm crusty bread or cornbread can be perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up its flavors.
Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can contrast the hearty soup. Try a simple mixed green salad, a tangy coleslaw, or a southwestern-style salad with corn and black beans.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled or roasted vegetables can make for a healthy and satisfying side.
Cheese Quesadillas: These can be a delicious and filling side. Plus, the cheese and tortilla ingredients resonate well with the flavors in the soup.
Spanish or Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice can complement the soup’s ingredients and make the meal even more satisfying.
Guacamole and Chips: A side of guacamole with tortilla chips can keep with the southwestern theme of the soup.

Storage And Make Ahead

Make ahead: Prepare the soup base without the beans and corn, then refrigerate or freeze. Add beans and corn when ready to serve to maintain their texture.
Proper storage: Store cooked soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Portion for convenience: Divide the soup into individual servings before storing for easy reheating.
Reheat gently: Warm the soup over low heat on the stove to prevent burning and maintain flavors.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and spices after reheating to ensure optimal flavor.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Leftover Black Bean and Corn Soup can be utilized creatively, extending its delicious flavor beyond just reheating and serving. For example, you could use it as a sauce or filling for enchiladas or tacos, adding an extra depth of flavor to these dishes.

It could also be mixed with cooked rice or quinoa for a hearty grain bowl. If you’re looking for something lighter, consider puréeing the soup and using it as a base for a flavorful salad dressing.

Alternatively, add some extra broth and leftover veggies or protein to create a new soup or stew. Remember, any spare usage should remain within the safe storage window of 3-4 days if refrigerated or up to 3 months if frozen.

TIPS

Soak beans: For optimal texture and cooking time, soak black beans overnight before using them in the soup.
Sauté aromatics: Enhance flavor by sautéing onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder before adding liquids.
Use stock: Opt for vegetable or chicken stock instead of water for added depth of flavor.
Add corn last: Add corn kernels towards the end of cooking to maintain their sweet crunch.
Garnish generously: Top each bowl with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness.