Description
This hearty Mexican-style pinto bean soup is packed with fiber, protein, and bold flavor—an easy, one-pot vegan meal that’s creamy, cozy, and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes (or fresh roasted tomatoes)
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 small carrots (about 150 g), peeled and diced
1 medium potato (about 135 g), peeled and diced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Red pepper flakes, to taste
2 bay leaves (optional)
2 cups vegetable broth
2 (14 oz) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed (about 250 g each can)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Lime juice, for brightness
Fresh herbs, for garnish
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add Vegetables & Spices:
Stir in roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, carrots, potato, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Add Beans & Finish Cooking:
Stir in pinto beans and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If needed, add more broth or water.
Blend for Creaminess:
Blend about half the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a standing blender, then return it to the pot and stir well to combine.
Adjust & Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a splash of lime juice if desired. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Use canned or roast fresh tomatoes at 450°F for 30 minutes with a drizzle of olive oil.
Beans: Canned beans are convenient, but you can also use home-cooked pinto beans.
Texture: Blend as much or as little as you like for your preferred creaminess.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired