Bountiful Black Bean Soup

Black bean soup is one of THE most favorite lunch or dinner ideas in my home - Luckily, it also happens to one THE best foods to eat - We have a win-win situation :-) The children (the little one included) seem to go for it in a big way and has been the summer savior when the kids were home and needed instant gratification and in need of a  hearty meal- this again is one of those, "have no ideas today - what can i make that is quick simple and delish, recipes. Talking to my sister the other night reminded me to put it on the blog.
Just can it - I mean that's all you need cans of black beans and diced tomatoes; and, a few spices and garnishing

To serve 4 people substantially:

Ingredients:

4 cans of black bean soup - Kroger brand works just fine

2 cans of Hunt's diced tomatoes with no added flavors

1 teaspoon of cumin seeds

1or 2 green chilies (I used 3 because we like it HOT :-)

2 - 3 cloves of garlic

1 spoon of Rasam powderr

1 cup  of chopped cilantro  (most to cook with and some to garnish

Olive Oil - 1 teaspoon

Preparation:

Open cans and drain and wash the black beans thoroughly in a colander

In a pan, get the oil heating lightly, add the cumin seeds and allow them to pop, add the garlic and the green chili all uncut. 

When they are slightly browning, add the tomatoes and let it cook for couple of minutes - this is a good time to throw in the coriander powder.

Next add the washed beans and let it all boil together until you see the tomato sauce bubbling- salt as needed  - go easy on the salt because both the canned substances already have salt. 

Switch off the stove and let the soup cool down. Then put in a blender and blend well - Add warm water to rinse off the remaining beans in the blender and add to the soup. 

Put it back on the stove to warm it, stirring it frequently. 

Once it is the desired heat, garnish with cilantro and serve hot

Secret tips: set aside a 1/2 cup of beans or more if you like more texture and add to the blended soup

Add a small dollop of yogurt in your soup for extra pleasure - Avoid sour cream to keep it healthy.

Serve with warm bread or tortillas - Also good to serve with tortilla chips and cheddar cheese