Ingredients
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2 cups dried black beans, soaked and drained
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
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2 tomatoes, diced
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2 bay leaves
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1 tablespoon ground cumin
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1 tablespoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 Salt and black pepper to taste
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8 cups vegetable broth
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2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
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1 Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
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1 Lime wedges for serving
Directions
This soup is even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapeño peppers. You can also top your soup with diced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor. Enjoy your taste of Brazil!
Steps
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1
Done
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat (you can omit the oil and use water or vegetable broth for sautéing to make it oil-free). Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until they become translucent. |
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2
Done
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Add the carrots, celery, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften. |
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3
Done
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom. |
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4
Done
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Add the soaked and drained black beans to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. |
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5
Done
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the black beans are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more water or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency. |
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6
Done
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Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired. |
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7
Done
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Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, and lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze of flavor. |
