Panera Black Bean Soup Recipe

Name: Panera Black Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cloves of garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion (finely diced); 2 celery stalks (finely chopped); 1/4 of a large red bell pepper (finely diced); 2 small chicken bouillon cubes; 1 – 1 1/2 cups of boiling water; 2 15-ounce cans of black beans, liquid included; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Finding the right dish to accompany your meal can often feel like a culinary scavenger hunt. For me, a hot bowl of Panera black bean soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side of crispy bread or a fresh garden salad.

The soup’s rich texture and bold flavors complement these options beautifully, creating a delightful dining experience that sparks conversation around the table.

Table of Contents

What is Panera Black Bean Soup?

Panera’s black bean soup is famed for its hearty consistency and vibrant flavor. This soup embraces the essence of black beans, seasoned with a handful of spices, making it both nourishing and satisfying.

It’s the perfect choice for a refreshing lunch or a comforting dinner. The beauty of this soup is its ability to transport you to a cozy kitchen, filled with the warmth of delicious food.

The Ingredients

To craft this delicious black bean soup, you’ll need a handful of ingredients. Here’s a quick list:

2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
1/4 of a large red bell pepper, finely diced
2 small chicken bouillon cubes
1 – 1 1/2 cups of boiling water
2 (15-ounce) cans of black beans, liquid included
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

These ingredients combine to create a soup that’s not only flavorful but also fulfilling.

How to Make Panera Black Bean Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a sizable pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped celery. Sauté these ingredients for about 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. The aroma will provide a welcoming scent that fills your kitchen, setting the tone for the meal ahead.

Step 2: Add the Peppers

Next, add the finely diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the bell pepper softens. The addition of bell pepper not only enhances the color of your soup but also adds another layer of flavor. Each bite will remind you that a little effort goes a long way in cooking.

Step 3: Incorporate the Liquids

Stir in the two chicken bouillon cubes and boiling water, ensuring that they dissolve completely. This step is crucial because it forms the base of your soup, contributing a savory depth that enhances the flavor profile. You’ll start to feel the excitement as the broth begins to simmer.

Step 4: Add the Black Beans

Now comes one of the best parts—adding the star of the show: the black beans. Dump in the contents of the two cans, including the liquid. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. The black beans create a hearty texture, making each spoonful a delight.

Step 5: Season and Thicken

Spicing it all up, add the sea salt, cumin, lemon juice, cornstarch, and smoked paprika. Mix well and allow the soup to simmer for another 10-15 minutes. As it simmers, the flavors meld together, creating a robust taste that warms the soul. You may want to taste it during this step to adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, your black bean soup is ready! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy it hot. You can garnish it with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch. Whatever your choice, just know that each bowl is made with love and a sprinkle of creativity.

Notes

Before you dive into making this soup, here are a few helpful tips to ensure success:

Beans Matter: Use high-quality black beans for a richer flavor. Canned beans save time but look for those without added sugars or preservatives.
Heat Preference: Adjust the spices based on your heat preference. If you like it spicy, consider adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Texture Adjustments: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend half of it using an immersion blender. This creates a different texture while maintaining the soup’s heartiness.
Budget-Friendly: If you’re looking to save on ingredients, consider using frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones. They’re just as nutritious and often more affordable.
Flavor Development: The longer the soup sits, the more flavorful it becomes. Making it a day in advance can enhance the taste.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to divide it into portion sizes before freezing, making it easier to reheat later.

Nutrition Information

panera black bean soup recipe nutrition facts

Serving Suggestions

Want to expand your meal beyond soup? Here are some excellent serving suggestions:

Fresh Bread: A crusty bread or baguette makes a great accompaniment. Dunking bread into the soup enhances the experience. It’s like a little hug for your taste buds.
Garden Salad: A crisp, vibrant garden salad adds freshness. Incorporate ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.
Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins are a delightful contrast. The moist texture complements the soup’s savory profile beautifully.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a fun texture contrast. You can even sprinkle some on top for an added crunch!
Rice or Quinoa: Serving the soup over rice or quinoa makes it more filling. This adds a comforting element to your meal and keeps you satisfied longer.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Panera Black Bean Soup?

Feeling a bit unconventional in the kitchen? Here are a few substitutes you can try in your black bean soup:

Vegetable broth: Swap chicken bouillon for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. This alternative still delivers depth and flavor.
Other beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorite combination.
Lime juice: If you don’t have lemons, lime juice adds a wonderful zing. It gives a different but equally delightful flavor profile.
Smoked paprika: Try using normal paprika if you want a milder taste. It will still yield a delicious soup without the smoky flavor.
Honey or maple syrup: If you prefer a touch of sweetness, a drizzle can complement the soup well. Just a small amount will enhance the overall flavor.

Panera Black Bean Soup Recipe

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Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 25

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: Panera Black Bean Soup Recipe

Servings: Servings

Calories: 241kcal

Author: Contributor One

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cloves of garlic minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion finely diced
2 celery stalks finely chopped
1/4 of a large red bell pepper finely diced
2 small chicken bouillon cubes
1 – 1 1/2 cups of boiling water
2 15-ounce cans of black beans, liquid included
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon smoked paprika