Sour CreamAvocado, and Fresh Salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions
Sort through the beans to remove any debris, then rinse them under running tap water. Place the rinsed beans in a 6-quart or larger Dutch oven or other lidded pot and add 7 cups of water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, turn the heat down to low and cover the pot. Let simmer for 90 minutes.
When the beans are done cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 10 minutes, until browned and softened. Add the garlic, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Sauté for 60 seconds. Add the cooked beans and any remaining liquid from the bean pot into the skillet.
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and turn the heat to medium-high. Once the liquid reaches a boil, turn the heat down to medium and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Taste and add salt as needed. If the soup seems too thin for you, continue cooking it uncovered until it reduces to your desired thickness.
Serve topped with salsa, sour cream, and avocado.
Notes
*Alternatively, puree in batches in a countertop blender, using caution not to burn yourself with the steam.For a vegan pinto bean soup, swap a vegan alternative for the chicken broth. Here is the one I recommend, listed below in the recommended products section, and you can get it from Amazon if your store doesn't carry it.Store Mexican Bean Soup in an airtight container or mason jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. To freeze, place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage.