Black Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 0.3 teaspoon pepper black freshly ground
• 45 ounce black beans rinsed drained canned
• 3 tablespoons carrots chopped
• 0.5 cup celery diced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 
• 1 tablespoon garlic minced
• 0.3 cup bell pepper diced green
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 0.5 cup onion minced
• 1 teaspoon oregano dried
• 2 cups vegetable broth 
• 1 cup water 

Equipment

• bowl
• sauce pan
• blender

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add celery, minced onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook 10 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Add garlic and the next 4 ingredients (through black pepper); saut 3 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, and beans; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Cool slightly.
5. Place half of soup in a blender, and process until smooth.
6. Pour into a bowl. Repeat procedure with remaining soup.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired.