Pinto Bean Soup Recipe
If you are looking for a comforting, hearty, and flavorful meal, this Pinto Bean Soup recipe will become your new go-to. Packed with tender pinto beans, vibrant vegetables, and a fragrant blend of spices, this soup strikes the perfect balance between cozy and fresh. Whether you are warming up on a chilly day or serving a crowd, Pinto Bean Soup delivers a satisfying, nutritious experience that leaves you feeling nurtured and utterly content.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pinto Bean Soup lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient shines before blending into a soulful dish. These basic pantry staples come together elegantly to build layers of flavor and texture, from the creaminess of the beans to the subtle warmth of smoked paprika.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, bringing a gentle richness to the base.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes.
- 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes: Imparts a smoky, tangy kick that lifts the soup’s character.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: For that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 2 small carrots, peeled and diced: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced: Brings creamy texture and body to the soup.
- 1 tsp oregano, dried: Herbs that gently brighten and enhance the savory tones.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Offers an earthy warmth that complements the beans perfectly.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness that ties all the flavors together.
- Red pepper flakes, to taste: Adds just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
- 2 bay leaves (optional): Classic aromatic leaf to deepen complexity.
- 2 cups vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that brings everything to a comforting simmer.
- 2 (14 oz) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed: The heart of the soup, creamy and protein-packed.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to tie all elements together.
How to Make Pinto Bean Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. This step builds the rich flavor base, so don’t rush it! The onions release their natural sweetness, setting the tone for an irresistible soup.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices
Next, stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, diced carrots, potato, and all the spices including oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes until the kitchen fills with that warm, inviting scent. This brief sauté awakens the spices and lets their flavors mingle beautifully.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and toss in the optional bay leaves for a hint of herbal depth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer with the lid on for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures the vegetables soften nicely and the flavors meld into a comforting harmony.
Step 4: Add Beans and Finish Cooking
After the initial simmer, add your drained and rinsed pinto beans to the pot. Cook for another 10 minutes so the beans absorb the lovely broth flavor while heating through. Give everything a good stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to encourage even cooking. At this point, your soup is already smelling incredible.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
For that velvety texture, pour about half of the soup into a different pot or bowl and blend it using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Then return the blended portion back into the pot and stir it in to combine. This technique adds a luscious creaminess without needing actual cream. Taste your soup and adjust salt, pepper, or add a squeeze of lime juice if you want a fresh pop.
How to Serve Pinto Bean Soup
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or even a sprinkle of chopped green onions are fantastic for topping this soup, adding a burst of color and brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate each spoonful and add creaminess or spice to suit your mood.
Side Dishes
Pair Pinto Bean Soup with crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up every bit of the flavorful broth. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables will add a nice textural contrast, turning your meal into a well-balanced, satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your soup in rustic bowls to emphasize its comforting nature, or get playful by topping it with crispy tortilla strips and avocado slices for a southwestern twist. For a heartier meal, ladle the soup over steamed rice or quinoa to create a filling bowl full of textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pinto Bean Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and the flavors will actually deepen as it rests. Just give it a good stir before reheating to bring back its fresh vibrancy.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its perfect spoonable consistency. This flexibility is another great reason to love Pinto Bean Soup.
FAQs
Can I use dried pinto beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the soup. This will deepen the flavor but requires extra time and planning.
What can I substitute for the smoked paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder works well to preserve that subtle smoky depth.
Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Yes! This Pinto Bean Soup is completely vegan and relies on vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients to deliver its hearty, satisfying flavor.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Definitely. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference or add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick that warms you right up.
How thick should my Pinto Bean Soup be?
The soup should be comfortably thick but still spoonable, thanks to the blended portion creating a creamy texture without being heavy.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a homemade bowl of Pinto Bean Soup — it warms the soul and fills the kitchen with comforting aromas. Whether you are new to cooking beans or already a seasoned soup lover, this recipe is a beautiful way to enjoy simple ingredients elevated by love and technique. Give it a try soon, and I promise it will become one of your treasured dishes.
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Pinto Bean Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and flavorful Pinto Bean Soup made with fire-roasted tomatoes, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables. This comforting soup is easy to prepare, vegan, and packed with nutrients, perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 small (150 g) carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 medium (135 g) potato, peeled and diced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- 2 bay leaves (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Beans
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 (14 oz) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced potato, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ aromas.
- Add Broth and Bay Leaves: Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and add 2 bay leaves if using. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer with the lid on for about 10-15 minutes.
- Incorporate Pinto Beans: Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick or has evaporated too much liquid, add extra vegetable broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
- Blend the Soup: Pour about half of the soup into a separate pot or blender. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend until smooth or to your desired consistency. Return the blended soup to the main pot and stir to combine evenly.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices as needed. Optionally, add a splash of lime juice for brightness. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs of your choice. Enjoy your comforting pinto bean soup!
Notes
- Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth; if unavailable, use regular canned tomatoes for a milder flavor.
- Rinsing canned pinto beans removes excess sodium and improves the soup’s texture.
- Optionally add bay leaves for an aromatic background flavor.
- Lime juice brightens the soup and balances the smoky spices, but is optional.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering and Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240 ml)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: pinto bean soup, vegan soup, easy soup recipe, fire-roasted tomatoes, healthy soup, plant-based soup, comforting soup
