Name: Smoky Refried Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 1 large onion, chopped; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth; 1 (14-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 15 ounces fat-free refried beans; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1/8-1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (to taste); 1 teaspoon hot sauce (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Mexican oregano (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

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Table of Contents: Smoky Refried Bean Soup

Smoky Refried Bean Soup

Remember those chilly evenings when a bowl of something warm and comforting just hit the spot? As we get a little wiser (and maybe a little colder!), those simple pleasures become even more important.

This Smoky Refried Bean Soup is exactly that – a hug in a bowl, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. It’s a recipe that brings back memories and creates new ones, perfect for a cozy night in.

This isn’t just any bean soup; the smoky notes elevate it to something truly special. We’re talking about a depth of flavor that will have you savoring every spoonful. It’s a quick soup to throw together, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it’s also substantial enough to be a star on a holiday buffet or a comforting addition to a family dinner.

The Tex-Mex flavors are bold yet approachable, appealing to a wide range of palates. Forget complicated recipes – this one is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort.

This recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be difficult. It utilizes pantry staples and a few key ingredients to create a soup that’s both satisfying and healthy. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of beans, and the smoky paprika and chipotle powder add a layer of complexity that will impress your family and friends.

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find recipes for this delicious soup called “Refried Bean Soup,” “Spicy Bean Soup,” or even “Mexican Bean Soup.” While variations exist, this recipe focuses on achieving that wonderful smoky flavor. For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before serving.

Adding a squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider serving this bean soup with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips.

Ingredients: Smoky Refried Bean Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

* 1 large onion, chopped
* 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 ½ cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
* 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, I used fire-roasted
* 15 ounces fat-free refried beans
* 1 (15-ounce) can cooked black beans, rinsed and drained

* 1 cup frozen corn kernels
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
* ⅛ – 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder, to taste
* 1 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste
* ½ teaspoon Mexican oregano (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:* Fresh cilantro, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, avocado slices, lime wedges, tortilla strips.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. Chef’s Tip: Don’t rush this step! Building a good flavor base is crucial for a delicious soup.

2. Add the Tomatoes & Spices: Pour in the diced tomatoes (fire-roasted tomatoes add an extra layer of flavor!), vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, and Mexican oregano (if using). Stir well to combine. Shortcut: Use a pre-made taco seasoning blend, but reduce the amount to control the spice level.

3. Simmer for Flavor: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Incorporate the Beans: Add the refried beans, cooked black beans, and frozen corn to the pot. Stir well to ensure the refried beans are fully incorporated. Can I use canned refried beans? Absolutely! Canned refried beans are a convenient and perfectly acceptable substitute. Just be mindful of the sodium content and choose a low-sodium option if possible.

5. Adjust Seasoning & Heat: Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and the soup is warmed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce to your liking. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s hard to take it away!

6. Serve & Garnish: Ladle the Smoky Refried Bean Soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice are all excellent choices.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Smoky Refried Bean Soup comes together in under 30 minutes! It’s a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying meal.

* Prep Time: 10 minutes
* Cook Time: 25 minutes
* Total Time: 35 minutes
* Servings: 4
* Approximate Calories: 250-300 per serving (depending on toppings)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Smoky Refried Bean Soup works because it’s all about layering flavors. The sautéed vegetables create a savory base, the fire-roasted tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and smokiness, and the combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle chili powder delivers that authentic Tex-Mex flavor we all crave. Using fat-free refried beans keeps the soup lighter without sacrificing taste.

It’s truly easy comfort food for family dinners or a cozy night in. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend it – leaving some chunks for texture is recommended. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of beans! Pinto beans or great northern beans would also work well in this recipe.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Smoky Refried Bean Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.

To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Conclusion: Smoky Refried Bean Soup

So there you have it – a truly delicious and easy-to-make Smoky Refried Bean Soup that’s sure to become a new favorite. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the comforting warmth and bold flavors for yourself. Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to your liking and get creative with the toppings!

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Please share your thoughts and any variations you try in the comments below. Happy cooking!