Here’s one of my favorite comfort foods: purple black bean soup! Did you know that when black beans are cooked, they turn a lovely purple hue? It’s like they’re dressing up for dinner! This beautiful color comes from anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that help protect our cells from damage and reduce inflammation. So, when you see that vibrant purple, you can feel good knowing you’re getting some serious nutrition!
Even without the addition of red cabbage, this soup would still have that gorgeous color, but we throw in the cabbage because, well, why not pack in some extra nutrients?
Speaking of purple veggies, there are plenty of other delicious options out there. Think about eggplant, purple carrots, and even purple cauliflower—all packed with those same beneficial anthocyanins. And let’s not forget about snacking on some juicy grapes or berries; they’re not just tasty but also loaded with antioxidants. So when eating your rainbow, make sure to include the purple; it’s more powerful for your health than you may have thought.
Now, let’s be real—cabbage and beans together might just lead to some interesting moments later on. You know what they say: “Beans, beans, the magical fruit; the more you eat, the more you toot!” But hey, it’s well worth it; just make sure you prepare your family members haha.
Why You’ll Love This Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe
This purple black bean soup recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. The earthy goodness of black beans pairs perfectly with the crunch of red cabbage and a blend of spices that will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
It’s also very rich in nutrients and can be a balanced meal for vegans or those who prefer to cut down on meat without sacrificing protein and iron.
Ingredients for Your Purple Black Bean Soup
Servings: 6 medium size bowls
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this colorful delight:
- 2 cans of black beans, drained and rinsed (you can also soak dried black beans for an hour if you have time instead of using canned version)
- 1/2 small red cabbage, chopped
- 1 purple onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups of vegetable broth (preferably low sodium and organic)
- 2 cups of water (you might need to add more later if you are finding that the soup is too thick for your liking)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, vegan or sour cream
How to Make Purple Black Bean Soup
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until they become fragrant.
- Add the chopped red cabbage and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften.
- Stir in the black beans, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix everything well!
- Add in the vegetable broth and extra water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend just enough to create a creamy texture while keeping some chunks.
- Squeeze in fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Tips for the Perfect Purple Black Bean Soup
Want to make this soup even better? Here are some tips:
- For an extra creamy texture, blend half the soup until smooth and mix it back in.
- A splash of coconut milk can add a richness that enhances the flavor.
- Get creative with toppings—think crunchy pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of hot sauce for some extra zing!
High-Protein Bean Soup Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a high-protein bean soup recipe, this one is a winner! Black beans are rich in protein, which helps keep you feeling satisfied and energized. It’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based options into your meals without feeling deprived.
Health Benefits of Purple Black Bean Soup
This purple black bean soup recipe isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrient-rich ingredients.
- High in fiber for digestive health
- Rich in plant-based protein to keep you feeling full and maintain muscle health
- Loaded with antioxidants from the vibrant red cabbage
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan—suitable for many diets
- Low in fat and calories so it’s great for weight loss diets too
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days—perfect for meal prep! Just warm it up on the stove or pop it in the microwave. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water to bring it back to your desired consistency. Easy peasy.
And there you have it—a simple yet delicious purple black bean soup recipe that’s sure to become a favorite! Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a tasty meatless option, this high-protein bean soup is bound to please.
Grab your spoon and enjoy this colorful bowl of goodness! I can’t wait to hear how much you love it!
Happy cooking and slurping!
