Protein-Packed Chipotle Black Bean Tortilla Soup

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a warming bowl of Chipotle Black Bean Tortilla Soup wafting through your home on a busy weeknight. With its smoky spices and rich flavors, comforting bowls of this soup can be ready to serve in under 40 minutes and are packed with protein—about 15 grams per serving. It’s an open invitation to gather around the table, and the vibrant colors of the ingredients promise a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate.

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Why This Chipotle Black Bean Tortilla Soup Never Fails

Chipotle Black Bean Tortilla Soup is a chef’s favorite for good reason: it’s as foolproof as it is delicious! Packed with punchy flavors, this soup doesn’t shy away from delivering on spicy, smoky goodness. And the best part? It’s highly adaptable, so you can cater to your family’s taste buds while still hitting that nutritious mark. Plus, who wouldn’t want meal prep to come together in harmony with a comforting recipe? Trust me, this soup will quickly become your go-to dinner option when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make this delicious soup, gather these wholesome ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp avocado or coconut oil
• 1/2 white or yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 red or orange pepper (diced)
• 1 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 1/2 cups Red Chipotle Salsa (or any blended or chunky spicy salsa)
• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 2 Tbsp coconut sugar or maple syrup (to taste, optional)
• 2 15-ounce cans black beans (cooked in salt, slightly drained)
• 1 15.25-ounce can whole kernel corn (drained)
• Lime juice for serving
• Fresh cilantro (chopped) for serving
• Red onion (diced) for serving
• Tortilla chips for serving
• Ripe avocado (cubed) for serving
• Hot sauce for serving

Let’s Cook

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add oil, garlic, onion, pepper, and a pinch each of salt and pepper and stir.
2. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are translucent and the peppers have a bit of color.
3. Add cumin and chili powder and stir to coat.
4. Then add salsa, vegetable stock, and coconut sugar. Stir to combine, then increase heat to medium-high and bring to a low boil.
5. Once it is boiling, add black beans and corn, and stir.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve as is or with the recommended serving options above. Leftovers will keep covered in the refrigerator for 5-6 days or in the freezer for 1 month. Expert tip: If you prefer a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender briefly to puree a portion of the soup.

Healthy Reasons to Love This

This recipe yields about 6 servings, and each serving offers around 230 calories, 15 grams of protein, 40 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of fat, and 11 grams of fiber. Packed with fiber from the beans and corn, this soup is not just delicious but also a great choice for digestive health—keeping you full longer and helping to maintain steady blood sugar levels.

How to Serve It Best

Serve your Chipotle Black Bean Tortilla Soup in deep bowls, garnished with bright lime juice, fresh cilantro, diced red onion, creamy avocado cubes, and a generous handful of crunchy tortilla chips. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad, making it a well-rounded meal any night of the week. Perfect for chilly evenings, casual get-togethers, or anytime you crave something hearty.

Keep It Fresh

This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5-6 days in an airtight container. For longer-term storage, freeze it in leak-proof containers for up to a month. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra vegetable stock or water if it becomes too thick. Try to consume within the week for the best flavor and freshness; note that freezing may slightly change the soup’s texture.

Expert Tips

• For extra creaminess, consider blending in some cooked sweet potatoes before serving. They add a lovely texture and natural sweetness.
• Don’t be shy about adjusting the spices; if you like it hotter, use spicier salsa or add diced jalapeños.
• For a beautiful presentation, drizzle a little avocado oil on top before adding your toppings, giving it a gourmet look!

Flavor Experiments

• Seasonal Twist: To welcome fall, add diced pumpkin or butternut squash to the soup for a touch of sweetness.
• Gourmet Variation: Toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein boost alongside smoky flavor.
• Playful: Swap out the black beans for chickpeas for a different texture and taste altogether!

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Mistake: Adding too much liquid initially. Fix: Start with your vegetable stock but add gradually if you prefer a thicker consistency.
2. Mistake: Forgetting to season as you cook. Fix: Taste at different cooking stages and adjust as needed!
3. Mistake: Not storing properly. Fix: Always make sure to have tight lids on your containers to keep flavors fresh.
4. Mistake: Waiting too long to add avocado. Fix: Add it right before serving to avoid browning.
5. Mistake: Overcooking the beans. Fix: Incorporate them gently towards the end to keep them whole and prevent mushiness.

Next-Day Magic

• Soup Tacos: Use leftover soup as a flavorful filling for tacos, topping with cheese and fresh herbs.
• Hearty Casserole: Layer cooked quinoa or rice with leftovers and top with cheese for a baked casserole.
• Savory Breakfast Bowl: Transform it into a breakfast by adding a poached egg and avocado on top.

FAQs

Can I substitute black beans with another type of bean?

Absolutely! You can use pinto beans or even white beans, depending on your taste preferences.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Can this soup be made in advance?

Definitely! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully; just reheat before serving.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick that suits your taste!