Smoky Black Bean Sweet Potato

There is something deeply satisfying about a bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out. This Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup with Lime Crema is exactly that kind of dish—hearty, comforting, and alive with bold Southwestern flavors. Tender cubes of sweet potato melt into a smoky, spiced broth packed with black beans and diced tomatoes, while a bright dollop of lime crema cuts through the richness with a zesty, tangy finish. Ready in just 50 minutes, it is the perfect answer to a cozy weeknight dinner when you want something nourishing, vibrant, and completely satisfying.

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What makes this soup truly special is the harmony between its earthy, smoky base and the lively citrus crema on top. The sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and body, while the black beans add satisfying protein and texture. As the soup simmers, the spices bloom and deepen, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. When you swirl in that cool, lime-kissed crema at the end and scatter a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or slices of jalapeño across the surface, you have a bowl that looks as vibrant as it tastes. Whether you are cooking for yourself on a quiet evening or feeding a crowd, this Southwestern-inspired soup delivers every time.

Ingredients

• Vegetables:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
• Beans and Liquids:
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
• Seasonings:
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Lime Crema:
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Pinch of salt
• Garnishes (optional):
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.

Step 2

Add garlic and bell pepper; cook for 2 more minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to toast the spices.

Step 4

Add black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Step 5

Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6

Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup in the pot for a creamy texture, leaving some chunks for body. (Or transfer 2 cups to a blender, puree, and return to the pot.)

Step 7

While the soup simmers, make the lime crema: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 8

Taste soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9

Ladle soup into bowls. Top each with a dollop of lime crema and desired garnishes.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Für den besten Geschmack sollten die Gewürze kurz in der Pfanne angeröstet werden, bevor die Flüssigkeit hinzukommt—so entfalten Paprika, Kreuzkümmel und Oregano ihr volles Aroma. Achte darauf, die Süßkartoffeln gleichmäßig zu würfeln, damit sie gleichmäßig garen. Wenn du einen Standmixer verwendest, lasse die Suppe etwas abkühlen, bevor du sie pürierst, und fülle den Mixer nie mehr als halb voll, um Spritzer zu vermeiden. Die Limetten-Crema lässt sich gut im Voraus zubereiten und im Kühlschrank aufbewahren. Passe die Schärfe ganz nach deinem Geschmack an, indem du die Cayennepfeffermenge erhöhst oder weglässt.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Für eine vegane Version ersetze saure Sahne oder griechischen Joghurt durch einen pflanzlichen Joghurt deiner Wahl. Du kannst die Suppe nach Belieben mit zusätzlichem Gemüse bereichern—zum Beispiel mit Mais oder frischem Spinat, der am Ende untergerührt wird. Wer es besonders herzhaft mag, kann mehr Cayennepfeffer oder eine frische gehackte Chilischote hinzufügen. Die Suppe lässt sich auch gut einfrieren: Bereite eine größere Menge zu und friere sie in Portionen ohne die Crema ein, die du frisch zubereiten kannst, wenn du die Suppe wieder auftaust und erwärmst.

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

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Serviervorschläge

Diese Suppe schmeckt wunderbar mit warmem, knusprigem Brot oder Tortilla-Chips, die perfekt zum Eintauchen in die rauchige, cremige Brühe geeignet sind. Reiche sie mit zusätzlichen Limettenspalten, frischem Koriander und Jalapeño-Scheiben an, damit jeder Gast seinen Teller nach eigenem Geschmack garnieren kann. Als Getränkebegleitung passen ein frischer Sauvignon Blanc oder ein zitrusbetontes Pale Ale hervorragend zu den lebhaften Aromen dieser Southwestern-Suppe.

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This Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup with Lime Crema is more than just a weeknight staple—it is a bowl of genuine comfort and bold, layered flavor that comes together with minimal effort and maximum reward. With its smoky depth, natural sweetness, and that irresistible citrusy crema swirled on top, every spoonful delivers warmth and satisfaction. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is one you will return to again and again. Serve it up, garnish generously, and enjoy the kind of meal that makes you glad you chose to cook at home.

Recipe FAQ

→ What adds the smoky flavor to the soup?

Smoked paprika provides the rich, smoky depth that enhances the earthy black beans and sweet potatoes.

→ Can the lime crema be made vegan?

Yes, substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt to keep the crema creamy and tangy while vegan-friendly.

→ How do I achieve a creamy texture without fully blending?

Partially pureeing the soup with an immersion blender retains some chunks, giving a satisfying creamy yet chunky consistency.

→ What garnishes complement the soup best?

Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges add vibrant flavors and bright accents to the bowl.

→ Can this dish be made spicier?

Yes, increase the cayenne pepper or add extra jalapeños for a stronger spicy kick tailored to your taste.