11 Best Herbs and Spices for Black Bean Soup

Do you love black bean soup, but feel like it’s missing something?

Change up your regular recipe with a few herbs and spices!

From cumin and oregano to smoked paprika and chili powder, the right blend of seasonings can take a plain bowl of soup to the next level.

In this article, I’ll share my top 11 herb and spice picks for a delicious pot of black bean soup.

Read Also: 10 Best Toppings for Black Bean Soup

Read on for creative ideas that will make your next batch extra special!

1. Red Pepper Flakes

Adding red pepper flakes to your black bean soup can add a great flavor and a kick of heat.

The amount you should add depends on your preference for spiciness, so start with a little bit – about 1/2 teaspoon – and work up from there.

To prepare the pepper flakes, lightly crush them in the palm of your hand before adding them to the soup.

This will help release more of their subtle flavors into the dish.

Make sure to stir well when adding them so that they are evenly distributed throughout the soup!

2. Cumin

Cumin is a great way to add a distinct flavor and aroma to any soup, especially black bean.

When added correctly, it can make all the difference in your dish!

Cumin has an earthy-warm flavor that pairs well with beans and other vegetables.

It’s slightly nutty with a hint of smokiness, so it adds complexity and depth to the overall taste of your soup.

When adding cumin, use 1 teaspoon per 16 ounces (2 cups) of broth or stock.

You can adjust this measurement depending on how much flavor you want in your dish.

To prepare cumin for cooking, lightly toast the seeds over medium heat until they start to brown and become fragrant – about two minutes.

Then grind them into powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder before adding them directly into the soup during cooking time.

3. Oregano

Oregano is perfect for adding an extra layer of flavor to black bean soup.

It has a strong, herbal taste that will add complexity and depth to your soup.

You should start by adding 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to the soup and adjust according to your preference.

To prepare the oregano, simply crush the leaves with the back of a spoon before adding it to your soup.

This will help release some of its flavor.

If you are using fresh oregano, finely chop it before adding it in.

Once everything is ready, just add in the oregano right at the end when all other ingredients have been added and cooked through – this way you don’t overcook or lose any flavor!

4. Coriander

Coriander can be a great way to add flavor to your soup.

It has an earthy, herbal taste that goes really well with the beans.

The amount of coriander you should use depends on personal preference, but typically 1-2 teaspoons is enough for one pot of soup.

To prepare and add coriander to your soup, first grind or crush the coriander until it is a fine powder.

Then, add the powdered coriander directly into the hot pot of soup and stir it in thoroughly before serving.

If you want even more flavor from the coriander, you can also toast it lightly in a dry skillet before adding it to your soup!

5. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper can be a great addition to your soup if you want to give it an extra kick of flavor!

Cayenne pepper is known for its spicy, smoky, and intense flavor that adds depth and complexity to any dish.

When used in moderation, cayenne pepper will add the perfect amount of heat without overwhelming the other flavors.

When preparing your cayenne pepper for use in soup, it’s important to first grind or mince the peppers until they become a powdery consistency.

You can also purchase pre-ground cayenne pepper from most grocery stores.

The amount of cayenne that you should use depends on your own personal preference as well as how much heat you’re looking for in your soup.

Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust according to taste.

To add the prepared cayenne pepper into your soup, simply sprinkle it over top before serving or stir it directly into the hot broth while cooking.

Be sure not to overcook it though—cayenne tends to lose its flavor when cooked too long!

6. Salt

Adding salt to your soup can bring out the flavor of all its ingredients.

It’s a great way to enhance the taste and make it more savory!

The amount of salt you should add depends on how salty you like your food, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

When preparing the salt for your soup, dissolve it in some water first so that it will be easier to mix into the soup.

Then, stir in one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired level of saltiness.

Remember not to add too much or else it might overpower the other flavors in the soup.

Once you’ve added enough salt, give your soup a final stir and let it simmer for 10 minutes before serving.

7. Black Pepper

Adding freshly ground black pepper to your soup can give it an extra kick of flavor and heat.

Black pepper has a sharp, pungent taste that will help balance out the sweetness of the beans and other ingredients in your soup.

When preparing your black pepper for adding to the soup, I recommend grinding fresh peppercorns with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

This will ensure you get the freshest, most flavorful pepper possible!

As for how much you should add, start by adding 1/4 teaspoon per serving.

Taste and adjust as needed until you’ve reached your desired level of spiciness!

Then simply stir in the ground black pepper before serving.

8. Chili Powder

Chili powder is a great way to add some heat and flavor to your black bean soup.

Depending on how spicy you want it, you can add anywhere from 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons of chili powder.

Simply mix the chili powder with an equal amount of warm water until it forms a paste.

This will help the flavors develop and also ensure even distribution throughout your soup.

Once prepared, stir in the chili paste into your soup and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the desired flavor is reached.

You may need to adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt or additional spices such as garlic powder or cumin depending on your preference.

9. Paprika

Paprika is a great way to add a unique, smoky flavor and vibrant color to your soup.

It’s up to you how much paprika you want to add – anywhere from 1/4 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons will work!

When preparing the paprika, mix it with a tablespoon of water or oil first.

This will help create an even distribution throughout the soup.

Once your paprika is ready, simply stir it into your simmering soup until everything is evenly combined.

If you want some extra heat in your soup, try adding cayenne pepper or red chili flakes along with the paprika.

10. Garlic Powder

Adding garlic powder to your black bean soup can really add a depth of flavor that you may be missing!

Garlic powder adds a savory, earthy taste and aroma that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of black beans.

When it comes to how much garlic powder to add, start off with small amounts – about 1/4 teaspoon per serving.

You can always adjust it depending on your preferences.

To prepare and add the garlic powder, simply mix it in a bowl or cup with some warm water until it forms a paste.

Once the paste is ready, stir it into your soup while cooking on low-medium heat for about two minutes before serving.

This will help bring out the full flavor of the garlic powder without overpowering the other ingredients.

11. Onion Powder

Onion powder has an intense onion taste that provides depth and complexity to any dish.

When it comes to how much onion powder you should add, it depends on personal preference.

Start by adding 1/2 teaspoon and adjust as needed.

To prepare and add onion powder, start by stirring in the desired amount into the soup while it is cooking over low heat.

Make sure to stir often so that it doesn’t burn or stick to the bottom of the pan.

Once added, let simmer for 15-20 minutes before serving for best results.

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