Just because a dish is simple doesn't mean it's not worthy of being called fantastic. Simple meals are often the most satisfying.
What else is simple?
- Cherishing your relationships.
- Loving yourself.
- Doing "good," in small or big ways. Smile genuinely at a total stranger who looks like they are having a bad day. Volunteer and change a life.
When all of the above feels complicated, start from scratch. A warm bowl of black bean soup to "do good" for your body.
While you eat, enjoy the simplicity of it and remember how lucky you are to have a hot bowl of soup this season. Simply put, it's one of life's small pleasures.
Simple Black Bean Soup
Makes enough for about 4 servings.
This is quick to prepare, hearty, filling and healthy. It's also very easy to improvise, making it great for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. Love heat? Kick up the chili powder and add some hot sauce. Want to round out the meal? Serve with a salad and some corn muffins.
1/2 red onion, peeled and diced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1 stalk of celery, diced
1 red pepper, diced
2 cups (400 grams) black beans, drained
2 cups (400 grams) chopped tomatoes (I used a 14 ounce can.)
1/2 cup (118 ml) chicken broth, vegetable broth or water
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 bay leaf
Cilantro, avocado, sour cream or even grated cheese for garnish (optional, but encouraged)
In a medium soup pot, saute the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, red pepper for about 5 minutes.
Add the black beans, tomatoes, broth and spices.
Simmer for 30 minutes, remove bay leaf, then garnish and serve.
