Let me tell you, there’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of pinto bean soup. It’s hearty, nutritious, and oh-so-easy to prepare! I remember the first time I made this recipe; I had just moved into my new apartment and was feeling a bit overwhelmed. I wanted something that felt like a hug in a bowl, and this pinto bean soup delivered just that! It’s packed with flavor, satisfying, and perfect for cozy nights in. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies and protein without even trying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to for those busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up a delicious pot of pinto bean soup that will warm your heart and fill your belly!

2 cups pinto beans, soaked overnight
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to soak those pinto beans overnight for the best results! It’s such an easy step that makes all the difference. You’ll love how everything comes together in this recipe. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Pinto Bean Soup

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious pinto bean soup! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready in no time.

First things first, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, but not smoking. The aroma of the oil warming up is just heavenly!
Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrot, and chopped celery. Cook them for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is softened and fragrant. It’s like a little flavor party happening in your pot!
Now, it’s time to add the star of the show! Toss in your soaked pinto beans, followed by the vegetable broth, cumin, and chili powder. Give it a good stir to combine all those flavors. Just imagine how great it’s going to smell!
Bring the mixture to a boil—don’t rush this part! Once it’s bubbling nicely, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot and let it bubble away for about 1.5 hours. This is where the magic happens; the beans will get all tender and absorb the delicious spices.
After that cozy simmer, give the soup a taste and add salt and pepper to your liking. I like to go a bit heavy on the pepper for that extra kick! And just like that, your pinto bean soup is ready to serve!

Wow, look at you go! You’ve just made a fantastic and comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Now, let’s keep the momentum going and talk about some tips for success!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to dive into making your pinto bean soup, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out absolutely amazing every single time!

Soak those beans! I can’t stress this enough. Soaking the pinto beans overnight not only speeds up cooking time but also helps them cook evenly and stay tender. If you’re in a pinch, you can quick-soak them by boiling them in water for about 2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.
Flavor boost! Don’t be shy with the spices. If you like a little heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or even a splash of hot sauce to the soup while it simmers. Also, consider tossing in some bay leaves for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to fish them out before serving!
Texture preference: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup after it’s finished cooking. This gives it a lovely, thick texture while still keeping some whole beans for that hearty feel.
Storage tips: If you have leftovers (which I highly doubt because it’s so good!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Pairing suggestions: I love serving this soup with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also top it with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or even a dollop of vegan sour cream for some extra creaminess!

There you have it! These tips will have you making pinto bean soup like a pro. So grab your ingredients, and let’s keep the deliciousness rolling!

Variations of Pinto Bean Soup

One of the best things about this pinto bean soup is its versatility! Once you’ve got the basic recipe down, feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variations that I love to try:

Spice it up: If you’re a spice lover like me, add some smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a nice kick. You could even throw in a diced jalapeño with the veggies for an extra layer of heat!
Veggie-packed: Don’t hesitate to toss in other vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet corn can add a delightful twist. Just chop them up and add them in with the rest of the veggies. You’ll have a colorful and nutritious soup!
Change the beans: While pinto beans are fantastic, you can easily swap them out for black beans or kidney beans. Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture, making it fun to experiment!
Herb infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your soup to another level! Try adding chopped cilantro or parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness. Thyme or oregano can also be added during cooking for a lovely aromatic touch.
Mexican fiesta: Give your soup a Mexican flair by adding lime juice and serving it with tortilla chips on the side. You could even mix in some diced tomatoes or tomatillos for a tangy twist!
Cheesy goodness: If you’re not strictly vegan, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving. It melts beautifully and adds a rich creaminess that’s hard to resist!

These variations are just the beginning! Don’t be afraid to play around with flavors and ingredients that you love. Cooking should be a joyful and personal experience, so make this pinto bean soup your own delicious creation!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this hearty pinto bean soup. Keep in mind, these values are based on typical ingredients and can vary slightly depending on your specific choices.

Calories: 200
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 10g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

This pinto bean soup is not only filling but also packed with nutrients! It’s a great source of fiber and protein, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal. Enjoy every spoonful knowing you’re nourishing your body!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got a delicious pot of pinto bean soup ready to go, let’s talk about some fabulous ways to serve it up for a complete meal! Trust me, these pairings will take your soup experience to the next level.

Crusty Bread: There’s nothing quite like dipping a warm, crusty bread into your soup. A nice sourdough or a fresh baguette will soak up all that hearty goodness beautifully!
Side Salad: A light and refreshing side salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette to brighten things up.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices on top of your soup add a luscious texture. Just slice them up and place them right before serving for that extra indulgence!
Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of freshness. It not only looks gorgeous but also enhances the flavor profile of your soup.
Vegan Sour Cream: If you’re looking for that creamy finish, a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt can add a delightful tang and richness that complements the spices perfectly.
Tortilla Chips: For a fun crunch, serve some tortilla chips on the side. They’re perfect for scooping up the soup and adding a bit of texture to each bite!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect meal! The beauty of this pinto bean soup is that it’s so versatile, and with the right sides, it can easily become a star dish on your table. Enjoy every delicious moment!

FAQ Section

Can I use canned pinto beans instead of dried? Absolutely! Canned pinto beans are a great time-saver. Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot. You’ll skip the soaking step and cut your cooking time down significantly, making it perfect for those busy nights!

How do I thicken my pinto bean soup? If you prefer a thicker soup, there are a couple of easy tricks! You can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon to create a creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. Both methods work like a charm!

Can I freeze pinto bean soup? Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the freezer for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

What can I add to make it more flavorful? There are so many ways to boost the flavor! Adding fresh herbs, a splash of lime juice, or even a dash of liquid smoke can add depth. And don’t forget, adjusting your spices to your taste can really elevate the dish!

Is this pinto bean soup suitable for meal prep? Definitely! This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just portion it out in containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week. It’s the perfect hearty dish to have on hand!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this amazing pinto bean soup, and now you have some leftovers (if there are any left—it’s that good!). Here’s how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy every last drop without losing any of that delicious flavor!

First things first, let your soup cool down to room temperature before storing it. This will help prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make your soup watery. Once it’s cooled, transfer your pinto bean soup into an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for about 3–4 days. Just make sure to label it, so you don’t forget about your tasty creation!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion (trust me, you don’t want a messy explosion in your freezer!). It should keep well for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Pour the soup into a pot and gently heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s thickened up a bit, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Just heat it until it’s warmed through and bubbling. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just be sure to transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it to avoid splatters. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot throughout.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your pinto bean soup for days, savoring those delightful flavors again and again. Happy eating!

Pinto Bean Soup: 5 Heartwarming Ways to Enjoy It

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Total Time: 105 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and nutritious pinto bean soup that is easy to prepare.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened.
Add soaked pinto beans, vegetable broth, cumin, and chili powder.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.
Add salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

Use canned beans for a quicker option.
Adjust spices according to your taste.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 200
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pinto bean soup

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