HERBED BLACK BEAN SOUP

Herbed Black Bean Soup image

Here's an economical meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. Hearty black beans make up for the meat, and the peppers add just the right splash of color.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 2h30m

Yield 12 servings (3 quarts).

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

1 pound dried black beans
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 cups water
1-1/2 cups chopped onions
1 cup thinly sliced celery
1 large carrot, chopped
1/2 cup each chopped green, sweet red and yellow peppers
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup no-salt-added tomato paste
3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon pepper
3/4 teaspoon salt-free seasoning blend
3 bay leaves

Steps:

Place beans in a Dutch oven or soup kettle; add water to cover by 2 in. Bring to a boil; boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; cover and let stand for 1 to 4 hours or until beans are softened. Drain and rinse beans, discarding liquid., Return beans to pan; add broth and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are almost tender. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the onions, celery, carrot, peppers and garlic in oil until tender. , Add the tomato paste, herbs and seasonings to the bean mixture. Add the sauteed vegetables; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender. Discard bay leaves.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 203 calories, Fat 4g fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 2mg cholesterol, Sodium 77mg sodium, Carbohydrate 31g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges