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Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol Recipe

Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol Recipe

5 from 1 vote
The Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol Recipe is a classic dish that showcases the delicious flavors of black beans.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Guatemalan
Calories: 196
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups dried black beans
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro diced avocado, sour cream, grated cheese, lime wedges

Equipment

  • Large pot: A spacious pot is essential for cooking the black beans and simmering the soup, accommodating all the ingredients.
  • Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping onions, garlic, and other vegetables required for the soup.
  • Knife: A sharp knife enables precise and efficient cutting, ensuring the ingredients are properly prepared for the recipe.
  • Wooden spoon: A trusty wooden spoon is ideal for stirring and combining the ingredients while cooking the soup, offering durability and heat resistance.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measuring cups and spoons assist in portioning the ingredients correctly, ensuring a well-balanced flavor in the soup.
  • Ladle: A ladle makes it convenient to serve the soup, allowing for easy portioning into bowls without spills or mess.
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional): Using a blender or immersion blender can help achieve a smoother consistency by blending a portion of the soup, if desired.

Method
 

Rinse and Soak the Beans:
  1. a. Sort through the dried black beans to remove any debris or stones.
  2. b. Rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water.
  3. c. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight.
  4. d. Alternatively, you can use the quick soak method. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the beans, and let them boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let them soak for 1 hour.
Cook the Beans:
  1. a. Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
  2. b. In a large pot, combine the beans and 6 cups of water.
  3. c. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. d. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the beans are tender.
  5. e. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans covered.
Prepare the Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol Recipe Base:
  1. a. In a separate large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. b. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft.
  3. c. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. d. Add the diced red and green bell peppers and cook until they start to soften.
  5. e. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes.
Season the Soup:
  1. a. Add the cooked beans along with the cooking liquid to the pot with the base.
  2. b. Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper.
  3. c. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. d. Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more salt or pepper if desired.
  5. e. If using, add the diced cooked ham, chorizo, or bacon at this stage and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve the Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol Recipe:
  1. a. Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls.
  2. b. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.
  3. c. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup.
  4. d. Accompany the soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread.
  5. e. Enjoy the delicious Guatemalan Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol Recipe with your family and friends.

Notes

Pre-soak the black beans: Soaking the black beans overnight can help reduce their cooking time and improve their texture.
Utilize canned black beans: If time is limited, using canned black beans is a convenient alternative that saves preparation time.
Blend part of the soup: Blending a portion of the soup creates a thicker consistency and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Adjust seasonings to taste: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasonings, such as salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano, according to personal preference.
Toppings for garnishing: Enhance the presentation and taste of the soup by garnishing it with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, grated cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Freezing leftovers: If you anticipate having leftovers, consider freezing them in individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.
Serve with crusty bread: Accompany the soup with slices of crusty bread, perfect for dipping and savoring alongside each bowl.
Side Dishes and Desserts For the the Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol Recipe