Ham Black Bean Soup Lime

This Ham and Black Bean Soup with Lime and Cilantro is a hearty, flavorful dish that perfectly balances smoky, savory, and bright citrus notes. Inspired by the classic flavors of Cuban cuisine, it’s a comforting meal that comes together with simple ingredients and provides a nourishing, protein-packed experience.

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The aroma of ground cumin, smoked paprika, and sautéed garlic fills the kitchen as the soup slowly simmers. The addition of fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro at the very end provides a bright acidity that lifts the earthy flavor of the black beans.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (about 300 g) cooked ham, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz/425 g each) black beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked black beans)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced (optional)
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
• 1 (14 oz/400 g) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Juice of 2 limes (plus lime wedges, for serving)
• 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Step 1

Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then sauté onion, bell pepper, celery, carrot (if using), and jalapeño (if using) for 6-8 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the ham and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Mix in the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.

Step 5

Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Remove the bay leaf. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, or transfer 2 cups to a blender, puree, and return to the pot. (Optional.)

Step 7

Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Step 8

Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a deeper smoky flavor, consider adding a ham bone or smoked ham hock during the simmering process; just remember to remove it before serving. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup right in the pot.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead. If you enjoy more spice, add a touch of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Serviervorschläge

This soup is delicious when served with a side of crusty bread, steamed white rice, or even fried plantains to enhance the Cuban-inspired theme.

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This Ham and Black Bean Soup is a soul-warming dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table with minimal effort, making it a perfect addition to your recipe rotation.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What gives the soup its smoky flavor?

The smoky depth comes from diced cooked ham and smoked paprika, which infuse the broth with rich, savory notes.

→ Can I make the soup spicier?

Yes, adding minced jalapeño during sautéing or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add heat to the soup.

→ How can I achieve a creamier texture?

Partially pureeing the soup using an immersion blender or transferring a portion to a blender smooths the texture without removing chunkiness.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish vegetarian?

Omitting the ham and substituting vegetable broth allows for a vegetarian option while maintaining hearty flavors.

→ What sides pair well with this soup?

Crusty bread, steamed rice, or fried plantains complement the soup nicely to create a balanced meal.