Chipotle Black Bean Soup

Last revised:  19-Jan-08 10:26

This spicy, smoky flavored soup has a unique flavor touch comes from chipotle chilies, a popular ingredient in the American southwest.  More commonly known as smoked jalapeños, Chipotle chilies can be found dried, pickled or canned.  When canned, they are usually packed in a thick, rich, flavorful adobo sauce.  Besides the bite from the chilies, this recipe also uses a bit of unsweetened cocoa.  The cocoa adds a complex warmth to the flavor of this otherwise simple soup.

Ingredients:

Directions:

In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil, onions, peppers, and garlic.  Sauté until the onions are translucent.  Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the oregano, cumin, chipotle chilies, and adobo sauce.  Sauté for an additional minute.

Add the cold water, bay leaf , and beans.  Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer.  Cook uncovered for about an hour, or until the beans are tender.

Stir in the cocoa powder, orange juice, cilantro, scallions, and salt; continue to simmer for at least 5 more minutes.

Enjoy this hearty soup with soft, sweet, well buttered cornbread pillows, and a cellar cool cider or my old fashioned lemonaid.