Black Bean Tortilla Soup

This Black Bean Tortilla Soup is hearty, spicy, and deeply satisfying. If you're into Tex-Mex flavors, you may also like our Tex-Mex Salad in a Jar.

It’s smoky, zesty, and loaded with plant-based protein and fiber, all wrapped up in a soul-warming bowl of goodness. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or curling up on a chilly evening, this soup delivers big flavor without any dairy, oil, or guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot simplicity: minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Hearty and filling: black beans and corn make this a stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free: made with whole food, plant-based ingredients.
• Meal-prep friendly: it tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable heat: add or skip the jalapeño to suit your spice tolerance.
• Daniel Fast-compliant and one of our favorite Starch Solution Recipes.

Health Benefits

• Black beans are packed with plant-based protein, fiber, folate, and iron to keep you full and support gut health.
• Corn tortillas provide complex carbohydrates and natural fiber for steady energy.
• Bell peppers and tomatoes are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants to support immune health.
• Garlic and onions offer anti-inflammatory compounds and natural prebiotics for digestive support.
• Cilantro adds detoxifying properties that help your body flush out heavy metals and support liver function.

What You'll Need to Make This Black Bean Tortilla Soup

1. Black beans: The heart of this recipe. Rich in protein, fiber, and earthy flavor.
2. Bell pepper: Provides sweetness and texture while adding color and nutrients.
3. Diced tomatoes: I used petite diced tomatoes, but regular ones work as well. It brings acidity and a natural sweetness that brightens every bite.
4. Corn tortillas: When baked, they turn into crispy strips that give the soup its signature crunch.

A full list of ingredients with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions and Variations

• Beans: Pinto or kidney beans work beautifully if you don’t have black beans on hand.
• Spice level: Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat. A pinch of chipotle powder will add smoky heat.
• Veggies: Toss in zucchini, diced carrots, or kale for extra texture and nutrients.
• Tomatoes: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky twist.
• Cilantro substitute: Use parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
• Toppings: Add sliced avocado or a spoonful of our homemade Vegan Sour Cream.

How to Make This Vegan Tortilla Soup

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice corn tortillas into thin strips, spread them on a baking sheet, and bake for 8–10 minutes or until crispy. Set aside.

2. Step 2: In a large soup pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the chopped bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic; sauté another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

3. Step 3: Stir in chili powder and cumin, toasting them for about 30 seconds to release their natural oils. Your kitchen should smell amazing!

4. Step 4: Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and corn. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.

5. Step 5: Stir in the black beans and let simmer another 10 minutes to warm through and allow the flavors to combine.

6. Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Adjust salt to taste.

Dish up and top each bowl with baked tortilla strips right before serving for maximum crunch.

Expert Tips

• Dice veggies: I like to use a mini-chopper to dice my veggies. It's fast and easy.
• Batch-cook and freeze: This soup freezes beautifully. Just store without the tortilla strips and add them fresh when reheating.
• Toast your spices: Don’t skip toasting the chili powder and cumin. It unlocks deeper, richer flavor.
• For thicker texture: Mash some of the beans with the back of your spoon while simmering.
• Control your heat: Want more kick? Add diced chipotle in adobo or a splash of hot sauce.

What to Pair With This Soup

• Enjoy this vegan tortilla soup with our Vegan Cornbread Muffins or Vegan Jalapeno Cornbread on the side.
• To pair this soup with a salad, we recommend our Green Goddess Salad, Kale Quinoa Salad, Southwest Salad in a Jar, or Vegan Taco Salad.
• This soup could accompany a party spread that includes our Vegan Sheet Pan Nachos, Black Bean Tacos, and Vegan Jalapeno Poppers.
• You'll want something cool and refreshing to sip on while enjoying this soup. We recommend either our Spicy Margarita Mocktail, Watermelon Mocktail, or Orange Juice Mocktail.

Recipe FAQs

This Black Bean Tortilla Soup is the kind of recipe that makes healthy eating feel like a treat. It’s smoky, hearty, and bursting with vibrant flavor, all while being entirely plant-based.

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