Recipe for Homemade Black Bean Soup

Beans are said to be beneficial to one's health. They are high in fiber, and a good source of protein. Consequently, I have been exploring more ways to incorporate beans in my diet. One such way I have been doing that is by cooking and eating a variety of bean soups.

A friend of mine introduced me to black bean soup many years ago when visiting a small delicatessen in Detroit. The soup was absolutely scrumptious but I thought it impossible for me to be able to duplicate this recipe at home. Nonetheless, after experimenting (and trial and error), I've come up with a very delicious black bean soup recipe.

Unlike most of my other recipes, this soup is not quick. It will take several hours to prepare.

Ingredients:

2 cups of dried black beans
1 package of onion soup
1 can of chicken broth
1/2 cup of lime juice
1 medium sized red onion
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 cup of sour cream
2 tablespoons of minced or dried garlic
salt/pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Wash and then soak black beans in cool water with a dash of salt over night.
2. Place beans in a large pot of cold water.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bring to a boil.
4. Add 1 can of chicken broth and 1 package of onion soup and stir thoroughly.
5. Reduce heat and simmer.
6. Chop onion.
7. Add 1/2 of onion and garlic to beans.
8. Let simmer for about 1 1/2 hours. Add 1/2 cup of lime juice.
9. Season to taste.
10. Simmer another 2 hours or until beans are tender.

Serve: Makes 6-8 servings.

Serve topped with a dollop of sour cream and the remainder of chopped onions. Other possible toppings include sliced jalapeno peppers, green onions, salsa and/or shredded cheese.