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Sopa Negra, or Black Bean Soup, is a comforting and nutritious dish from Costa Rica, known for its hearty flavors and simple ingredients. This savory soup is a staple in Costa Rican homes, enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It combines rich black beans with fresh herbs and a hint of spice, offering a healthy and filling meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave something warm and satisfying, Sopa Negra is both easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) dried black beans (or 4 cups cooked black beans)
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 bunch cilantro, chopped
6 cups (1.4 liters) water or vegetable broth
2 eggs (optional)
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
1 tsp salt
1 lime, cut into wedges
Tortillas or rice for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Black Beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse. Place them in a large pot with 6 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender. If using cooked beans, skip this step.
Sauté Vegetables: In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Simmer: Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot of beans. Stir in cumin, oregano, salt, and jalapeño (if using). Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Optional Poached Eggs: If you’d like to add eggs, crack them directly into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Cover the pot and let the eggs poach until the whites are set and the yolks are still soft.
Finish with Fresh Cilantro: Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving. Squeeze a lime wedge over each bowl for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
Serving
Serve Sopa Negra hot with tortillas or a side of rice for a complete meal. The poached eggs add a wonderful richness, but the soup can be enjoyed without them for a lighter option.
Sopa Negra is a versatile, nutrient-packed soup that’s easy to prepare and full of authentic Costa Rican flavor. Whether you serve it for a light meal or as part of a bigger spread, this black bean soup will quickly become a family favorite.
