Vegan Black Bean Soup With Sweet And Sassy Versatile Ingredients

From the vibrant hum of farmer’s markets to the hushed whispers of my grandmother’s kitchen, I’ve always believed that great recipes have stories, just as nourishing as the dishes they create. This Vegan, Sweet, and Sassy Black Bean Soup Recipe is no exception. 

Its tale began on a brisk autumn afternoon when the warm scent of earthy spices from a neighborhood food stall led me to a bowl of soup unlike any other. I discovered a playful dance between hearty black beans and subtle hints of sweet surprises in this delicacy.

I instantly knew this was a recipe that had to be shared. Drawing inspiration from that memorable experience, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this delicious concoction for you. 

As we journey together through this recipe, I invite you to experience the unique taste profile and the comforting warmth it provides. I guarantee it will become a cherished addition to your vegan culinary repertoire.

What Is Vegan Black Bean Soup?

Vegan Black Bean Soup is a delightful culinary creation that perfectly combines hearty and healthful ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful dish. As its name suggests, it’s a soup made primarily from black beans, a rich plant-based protein and fiber source.

The unique combinations of seasonings and sweet elements make it sweet and sassy.’ This includes a dash of natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar and a burst of sass from spices or heat-inducing ingredients like chili peppers or cayenne.

The ‘sweet’ aspect provides a pleasant counterbalance to the natural earthiness, while the ‘sassy’ element adds an unexpected kick.

The result is a nourishing, comforting soup that is packed with complex flavors that will delight your taste buds.

History Of Vegan Black Bean Soup Recipe

Soup, one of the most universal and beloved dishes worldwide, has a rich and diverse history dating back to prehistoric times. Originating around 20,000 BC, it was made possible with the advent of waterproof containers. 

The word ‘soup’ derives from the Middle English word ‘sop,’ which refers to a piece of bread onto which broth was poured. Throughout history, soups have reflected different cultures’ resources and culinary traditions. 

From hearty lentil soups in ancient Rome to the luxurious bisques of France, each variation tells a story about its origins. This humble yet versatile dish continues to evolve, marrying local ingredients with global flavors.

Interesting Facts For The Vegan Black Bean Soup

• Ancient Soup: The earliest archaeological evidence for the consumption of soup dates back to 6000 BC, and it was made of a hippopotamus and sparrow.

• Universal Appeal: Soup is a universal dish found in every culture’s cuisine around the world, each with its unique ingredients and preparation methods.

• Soups Are Healthy: Soups are often packed with nutritious ingredients and can be a low-calorie way to get many necessary daily vitamins and minerals.

• Etymology: The word soup is of Sanskrit origin, from the ‘su’ and ‘po’, which means good nutrition.

• Soup And Space: Astronauts have consumed soup in a specially designed pouch on space missions since the early days of space travel.

• Unique Celebrations: January is celebrated as National Soup Month in the USA.

• Souper Economics: The popular “Soup Kitchen” concept arose during the Great Depression in the 1930s, offering a nourishing meal to those in need.

• A Soup’s Journey: Over time, soups evolved from simple broths to complex creations involving various techniques such as pureeing, creaming, and slow cooking.

What Makes The Vegan Black Bean Soup Special?

The Vegan Black Bean Soup is special for a myriad of reasons:

• Unique Flavors: It boasts a unique blend of flavors, combining the heartiness of black beans with a sweet touch from apple juice and agave nectar. The chili powder and jalapeño spiciness balances these sweet notes, resulting in a robust, full-bodied soup.

• Nutrient-Dense: The soup is packed with plant-based protein and fiber from black beans, making it a highly nutritious option. Moreover, including various vegetables adds an array of vitamins and minerals.

• Versatility: This soup is highly adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. You can easily adjust the heat level, substitute ingredients, and even add other vegetables or proteins as desired.

• Easy Preparation: The recipe requires common ingredients and follows a simple, straightforward process, making it a convenient option for busy days.

• Great For Batch Cooking And Storage: The soup stores and reheats exceptionally well. You can make it in large batches, freeze it, and reheat it for future meals, ensuring you have a healthy, delicious option ready when needed.

Ingredients List

Ingredients	Quantity
Unsweetened Apple Juice	2 cups
Onion (diced)	2 cups
Celery Stalks (diced)	2
Carrots (peeled and diced)	2
Small Jalapeño Pepper (seeds and ribs removed, minced)	1
Garlic Cloves (minced)	3
Ground Cumin	2 heaping tbsp
Chili Powder (to taste)	2-3 tbsp
Cooked Black Beans (rinse and drain if using canned)	3 cups
Vegetable Stock (or half apple juice, half water)	4 cups
Agave Nectar	4 tbsp
Juice of Lemon	1
Hot Sauce (or more to taste)	A few shakes
Diced Tomatoes (with juice)	1 14-oz can
Tiny Pasta (tubettini, orzo, ditalini)	1/2 cup
Salt (taste first if using store bought stock)	1/2 tbsp
Fresh Black Pepper (to taste)	As needed

Ingredient Tips

• Black Beans: Using canned beans, ensure they’re well rinsed and drained to remove excess sodium. If using dry beans, remember to soak them overnight and cook them thoroughly before use.

• Unsweetened Apple Juice: Use a 100% natural product to avoid unnecessary sugars and additives. The flavor can drastically change based on the brand, so you can test a few to find your favorite.

• Spices: Freshly ground cumin and high-quality chili powder can significantly affect the soup’s flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amount to your personal taste.

• Jalapeño Pepper: For a milder soup, thoroughly remove the seeds and ribs, as this is where most of the heat lies. If you prefer it spicier, leave some seeds in.

• Agave Nectar: This can be replaced with other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey (if not strictly vegan), but the amount may need to be adjusted depending on the sweetener’s strength.

• Vegetables: Fresh, organic vegetables usually provide the best flavor. Make sure to dice them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

• Vegetable Stock: Opt for low-sodium versions or, even better, make your own at home for a healthier and tastier option.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will provide a brighter, more robust flavor than the bottled variety.

• Diced Tomatoes: If tomatoes are in season, consider using fresh ones for a more vibrant flavor and texture.

• Pasta: Ensure to cook the pasta sparingly. It should be ‘al dente’ – firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook when the soup is simmering.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Absolutely! You can modify the Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup recipe to accommodate various dietary preferences. Here are a few suggestions:

• Keto

Beans are generally high in carbs, so for a keto-friendly version, you could use low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower instead. Swap the apple juice for more vegetable stock, and use a sugar substitute like stevia instead of agave nectar.

• Paleo 

Beans and legumes are generally avoided in a paleo diet. Substitute the black beans with chicken or turkey for a paleo-friendly version. The agave nectar can be replaced with raw honey, and you can omit the pasta or replace it with spiralized vegetable noodles.

• Gluten-Free 

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if adding pasta, make sure to choose a gluten-free variety. Read labels carefully, as some stock cubes and flavorings can contain gluten.

• Whole30

For a Whole30-friendly version, remove the sweeteners altogether. You could use crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a smoother texture. The black beans should also be replaced with a Whole30-compliant protein like chicken.

Recipe Directions

• Preheat a 5-quart heavy pot. 
• Bring apple juice to a boil, then sauté diced onions for 2 minutes. 
• Add diced celery, carrots, minced jalapeño, garlic, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for 3 minutes. 
• Stir in cooked black beans, vegetable stock, agave nectar, lemon juice, hot sauce, and diced tomatoes. 
• Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. 
• Add tiny pasta, salt, and black pepper, and cook for another 8-10 minutes. 
• Adjust seasoning if desired. 
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings For The Recipe

Sure, here are some variations, add-ons, and toppings you can consider for the Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup:

Variations

• Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a smoky touch to the soup.

• Extra Protein: For a non-vegan version, you could add shredded chicken, turkey, or even diced tofu for extra protein.

• Creamy Version: For a creamy texture, blend half of the soup and mix it back in.

• Mexican Twist: Add some corn, and substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a Mexican-inspired version.

Add-Ons

• Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can be added for a nutritional boost.

• Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, or bulgur can be added to make it more filling.

• Beans: You can also add other types of beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas for variety.

Toppings

• Herbs: Freshly chopped cilantro, parsley, or even spring onions can provide a fresh contrast to the hearty soup.

• Avocado: Slices of avocado can give a creamy texture and a good dose of healthy fats.

• Crunch: Toasted pumpkin seeds, croutons, or tortilla strips could add a delightful crunch.

• Cheese: Sprinkle some vegan cheese on top for a gooey, melty delight.

• Dairy-free Sour Cream: A dollop on top can add a tangy creaminess.

• Lime Wedges: Served on the side, they can be squeezed over the soup for added freshness.

Scaling The Recipe

Scaling a recipe up or down is relatively straightforward, particularly with a soup recipe like this one, where precise measurements are less critical than they would be in something like baking.

To Scale Up

• If you want to make more servings than the recipe provides, multiply each ingredient by the same factor. For instance, if the recipe serves 6-8 and you want to serve 12-16 (double the servings), multiply the quantity of each ingredient by 2. However, be aware that you’ll need a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume, and cooking times may be slightly longer.

To Scale Down

• To make fewer servings, divide each ingredient by the same factor. For instance, if you want to halve the recipe to serve 3-4, divide the quantity of each ingredient by 2. Keep a close eye on the cooking times, as they may be slightly shorter when you’re making a smaller quantity.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

Garnishing the Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup can add both aesthetic appeal and extra flavor. Here are some suggestions:

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, parsley, or even spring onions on top of each serving can add a pop of color and a fresh flavor.

• Avocado Slices: Avocado provides a creamy texture, good healthy fats, and looks great as a garnish.

• Lime Wedges: These can be served on the side of the bowl, allowing each person to squeeze fresh lime juice into their soup as desired.

• Vegan Sour Cream Or Yogurt: A dollop on top can add a tangy creaminess and a nice contrast in color.

• Crunchy Tortilla Strips Or Croutons: These can provide a delightful crunch and a contrasting texture.

• Seeds Or Nuts: Sprinkling toasted pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or crushed almonds could add a healthy crunch.

• Vegan Cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite shredded vegan cheese can add a delightful, melty texture.

Can I Make Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! The Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup can be prepared in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here are the adaptations you can make:

Slow Cooker

• In a pan over medium heat, sauté the onions, celery, carrots, jalapeño, and garlic in some of the apple juice until softened.

• Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the rest of the apple juice, black beans, vegetable stock, agave nectar, lemon juice, hot Sauce, tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder.

• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

• During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the pasta, salt, and pepper.

• Before serving, check the seasoning and adjust with more lemon, agave, hot Sauce, salt, and pepper as needed. Serve hot.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, cook the onions, celery, carrots, jalapeño, and garlic in the apple juice until softened.

• Add the black beans, vegetable stock, agave nectar, lemon juice, hot sauce, tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.

• Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes.

• Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

• Open the lid, change the setting back to sauté, and add the pasta. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is cooked.

• Season with salt and pepper, then check and adjust the seasoning before serving.

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

You can certainly use either store-bought vegetable broth or homemade broth in the Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup recipe. The choice between the two depends on your preference, available time, and dietary restrictions.

Store-Bought Broth

• This is a convenient option, especially if you’re short on time. It’s readily available in most grocery stores. When buying store-bought broth, look for low-sodium versions so you can control the salt level in your soup. 
  Also, check the ingredients list to ensure it meets your dietary needs and contains no additives or ingredients you might be trying to avoid.

Homemade Broth

• Making your own vegetable broth allows you to control exactly what goes into it. You can use your preferred mix of vegetables and seasonings to achieve a flavor profile that suits your taste. 
  Homemade broth is also a great option if you’re following a specific diet or have food sensitivities, as it prevents undesired ingredients. However, making your own broth does require more time and planning than using store-bought.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup? 

You can modify this Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup recipe to accommodate various ingredients based on your preference, diet, or what you have available. Here are some ideas:

• Meat: While this is a vegan soup, you could add cooked chicken, turkey, beef, or even shrimp if you need to follow a vegan diet. These should be cooked separately and added near the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

• Fish: While not a common addition to black bean soup, you could add a firm, white fish like cod or haddock if desired. Like meat, these should be cooked separately and added near the end of the cooking time.

• Pasta: Feel free to switch out the recommended pasta type for any small pasta shape you like or have on hand. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. For a lower-carb option, consider using spiralized vegetables or shirataki noodles.

• Vegetables: The vegetables in this soup can also be varied according to your preference. For example, you could add bell peppers for extra sweetness, zucchini for a different texture, or leafy greens like spinach or kale for a nutritional boost. These can be added along with the existing vegetables or used to replace some of them.

• Legumes: If you’d like to vary the beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas would all be good choices. They can either replace the black beans or add them to a mixed bean soup.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Soup

Creating a great soup involves a mixture of the right ingredients, preparation, and cooking techniques. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you make the most out of your Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup:

Prepping Time Tips

• Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop all your vegetables before you start cooking. This will save you time during cooking and ensure everything is ready when needed.

• Soak Your Beans: If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight. This will significantly reduce their cooking time.

Cooking Tips

• Start With A “Sofrito”: Cooking your onions, celery, and carrots until they’re softened releases their flavors and forms the flavor base of your soup. Take your time with this step.

• Use The Right Amount Of Liquid: Adding too much liquid can dilute the flavor of your soup. You can always add more liquid later, but it’s harder to remove it.

• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to soup. Boiling can cause the vegetables to become mushy and the flavors to become muddled.

• Season Gradually: Season your soup a little during the cooking process. This allows the flavors to develop complexity. Always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end.

Nutritional Values

The Vegan Black Bean Soup is a nutrient-dense dish packed with dietary fiber, plant-based proteins, and vital vitamins & minerals. Black beans contribute to heart health and aid digestion, while the variety of vegetables provides essential vitamins like A and C. 

Additionally, this soup is low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their heart health or aiming to maintain a balanced diet.

What Are The Total Calories In Soup?

The total calories in the Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup will depend on the exact amounts and specific ingredient brands. However, a typical vegan black bean soup serving may contain between 200 to 300 calories. 

I recommend using an online recipe nutrition calculator for the most accurate nutritional information. These tools allow you to input the exact quantities and brands of ingredients you’re using to get a detailed nutritional breakdown, including calorie count.

Dietary Restrictions For Soup

The Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup, as written, is suitable for several dietary restrictions:

• Vegan And Vegetarian: The recipe doesn’t include any animal products, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

• Dairy-Free And Egg-Free: This recipe is naturally free from dairy and eggs.

• Nut-Free And Gluten-Free: The soup is free from nuts and, if you ensure to use a gluten-free pasta and broth, it can be gluten-free as well.

However, there are a few dietary restrictions to keep in mind:

• Soy-Free: Ensure the vegetable broth you use is soy-free if you’re cooking for someone with a soy allergy or intolerance. Some vegetable broths may contain soy-based ingredients.

• Low-FODMAP: Black beans and onions are high in FODMAPs (types of carbohydrates that some people have difficulty digesting). Therefore, this soup might not be suitable for people following a low-FODMAP diet.

• Low-Sodium: The sodium content can be controlled by using low-sodium vegetable broth and adjusting the added salt. However, this soup might need further modifications if you’re on a very low-sodium diet.

Health Benefits Of Soup

Soup, especially when homemade and packed with a variety of vegetables and legumes like the Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup, can have numerous health benefits. Here are a few:

• Nutrient-Rich: Soup can be an excellent way to consume a variety of nutrients in one meal. Vegetables, legumes, and spices bring a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the table.

• Hydration: Soup, being largely liquid, contributes to your daily fluid intake, helping keep you hydrated.

• Digestive Health: The high fiber content from the vegetables and beans helps support a healthy digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements and contributing to a feeling of fullness.

• Low in Calories, High In Satiety: Soups, particularly broth-based versions, are typically low in calories but high in volume, which can help you feel full and satisfied without consuming a large number of calories.

• Immune Support: Many ingredients often used in soups, such as garlic, onion, and various herbs and spices, have properties that can support the immune system.

• Heart Health: This vegan soup is low in fat, particularly saturated fat, and contains no cholesterol, which is beneficial for heart health. The fiber from the beans can also help manage cholesterol levels.

• Versatility: Soup can accommodate a wide range of ingredients, making it an excellent meal to use leftover vegetables or incorporate nutrient-dense foods into your diet.

Nutrition Table

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sodium?

Reducing the sodium in your soup can be achieved with a few adjustments:

• Choose Low-Sodium Or No-Sodium Broth: Many brands offer low-sodium or no-sodium versions of their broths, which are a great place to start when trying to reduce the overall sodium in a soup.

• Rinse Canned Beans: If you’re using canned black beans, be sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the soup. This can remove up to 40% of the added sodium.

• Limit Added Salt: Be mindful of the salt you add during the cooking process. Taste your soup before serving, and only add salt if necessary.

• Use Fresh Or Frozen Vegetables: Fresh or frozen vegetables usually have less sodium than their canned counterparts.

• Add Flavor With Herbs And Spices: You can enhance flavor without adding sodium by using a variety of herbs and spices. For example, the cumin, chili powder, garlic, and fresh lemon juice in this recipe add lots of flavor without contributing significant sodium.

• Make Your Own Stock Or Broth: Homemade stock or broth allows you to control the amount of salt added. You can make it in large batches and freeze it for later use.

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sugar?

Making soup lower in sugar mainly involves being mindful of your ingredients. Here are a few tips for the Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup:

• Choose Unsweetened Apple Juice: Make sure to use unsweetened apple juice. Some brands can contain added sugars, which will increase the sugar content of the soup.

• Skip or Reduce The Agave Nectar: You can reduce or completely skip the agave nectar in the recipe. The natural sweetness from the apple juice and the vegetables might be enough.  If you do need a little sweetness, consider using a natural sweetener like stevia which doesn’t impact blood sugar levels.

• Use Fresh Tomatoes: If possible, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones. Canned tomatoes can sometimes contain added sugars. If you need to use canned, look for a brand that doesn’t add sugar.

• Pay Attention To Your Broth: Some vegetable broths can contain added sugars. Look for brands that don’t add sugar, or consider making your own at home.

How To Serve The Soup In The Best Way?

Serving soup can be elevated with a few thoughtful touches:

Choose The Right Bowl

Soup bowls should be wide and not too deep. The size of the bowl should correspond to the portion size. If the soup is a main course, a larger bowl is suitable. If it’s a starter, a smaller bowl or even a soup cup could be more appropriate.

Warm The Bowl

Before serving, you might want to warm the soup bowls. This helps keep the soup warm for longer. Simply run hot water into the bowl and let it sit for a minute or two before emptying and drying it.

Garnish

The Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup can be garnished with a variety of toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt. A sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips could also add a delightful crunch.

Serve With Accompaniments

Depending on the meal, you might want to serve the soup with a side of warm crusty bread, a light salad, or a grain like quinoa or rice.

Presentation

Consider the visual appeal of your serving. If using garnishes, try not to overcrowd the surface of the soup, let the vibrant color of the soup show through.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Soup Recipe

A hearty soup like Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup can be a meal in itself, but if you’d like to round it out with a few sides, here are some suggestions:

• Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with a citrusy vinaigrette could complement the earthiness of the black bean soup.

• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant could add a nice texture contrast and extra veggies to your meal.

• Cornbread: This soup would go wonderfully with a piece of sweet, moist cornbread. You can find many vegan cornbread recipes online if needed.

• Quinoa Or Brown Rice: If you’re looking for a more substantial addition, a side of quinoa or brown rice could be a great option.

• Avocado Toast: Slices of crusty bread topped with mashed avocado, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of chili flakes would provide a creamy, tangy complement to the soup.

• Vegan Quesadillas Or Tacos: If you’re going for a Mexican-themed meal, vegan quesadillas or tacos with your favorite fillings could be a fun and tasty addition.

• Fresh Fruit Or Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad or simply a bowl of fresh fruit could serve as a nice palate cleanser after the hearty soup.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

When stored properly, this Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors in your fridge.

If you’d like to keep the soup longer, you can freeze it. The soup can be stored in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s a good idea to freeze the soup in individual portions so you can easily thaw and reheat only what you need.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Absolutely! Making soup in advance is possible and often beneficial, as it allows flavors to meld and intensify over time. This Vegan Black Bean Soup can be made a day or two before you plan to serve it. 

After cooking, allow the soup to cool, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve the soup, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot all the way through. 

If the soup has thickened in the fridge, add a bit of vegetable broth or water to thin it to your desired consistency.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup can be used in various creative ways to form new delicious dishes:

• Grain Bowl: Warm up the soup and serve it over a bed of cooked quinoa, brown rice, or bulgur wheat. Top with fresh herbs, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

• Pasta Sauce: Use the soup as a flavorful sauce for pasta. Warm it up, mix it with cooked pasta, and garnish it with fresh herbs or nutritional yeast.

• Stuffed Peppers: Use the soup as a filling for bell peppers or zucchini. Hollow out the vegetables, stuff with the soup, top with breadcrumbs or vegan cheese, and bake until tender.

• Taco Or Burrito Filling: The soup can make a tasty filling for tacos or burritos. Add some fresh lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a complete meal.

• Layered Casserole: Use the soup as a layer in a casserole, combined with layers of roasted vegetables and cooked grains.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

Cooking soup typically doesn’t require any special or unique tools, but a few kitchen essentials can help make the process easier and more efficient. 

Here are some common tools that can be helpful when making Vegan Sweet and Sassy Black Bean Soup:

Large Pot Or Dutch Oven

A good-quality large pot or Dutch oven is crucial for making soup. These pots distribute heat evenly and are large enough to handle all the ingredients without overflowing.

Wooden Spoon

A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the ingredients together and ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Sharp Knife And Cutting Board

These are needed to chop the vegetables. A sharp knife will make this task easier and safer.

Blender Or Immersion Blender (Optional)

If you favor a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup. This is not necessary for this particular recipe, but it can be a helpful tool for other types of soup.

Ladle

A ladle is useful for serving soup neatly and efficiently.

Measuring Cups And Spoons

These are necessary to measure the ingredients accurately, especially for recipes where precise quantities are important.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Canned Black Beans For This Soup?

Absolutely! Canned black beans are a great time-saver. Just make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly before adding to the soup.

What Can I Use Instead Of Apple Juice In This Soup Recipe?

If you don’t have apple juice, you can use vegetable broth or even water. The apple juice adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors, but the soup will still be delicious without it.

I Don’t Have A Jalapeño Pepper. What Else Can I Use?

Any hot pepper can work as a substitute. If you don’t have fresh peppers, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper can also add some heat.

Can I Make This Soup Spicier?

Definitely! Feel free to add more jalapeño, chili powder, or hot Sauce to taste. Always add a bit at a time and taste to ensure it doesn’t become too hot for your liking.

Is This Soup Kid-Friendly?

While this soup has some spice to it, you can easily adjust the heat to make it more kid-friendly. Simply reduce or omit the jalapeño and chili powder.