Sopa de Caraotas
Venezuelan Black Bean Soup
A hearty and traditional Venezuelan black bean soup, perfect as a comforting main course, often served with rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500g Dried black beans(Rinsed and picked over for stones.)
- 8 cups Water or low-sodium vegetable/chicken broth(For cooking the beans.)
- 4 cloves Garlic(Minced or finely chopped.)
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 cup Sofrito(Homemade or store-bought. Typically includes sautéed onions, peppers, and tomatoes.)
- To taste Salt
- To taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold running water and pick through them to remove any small stones or debris. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with at least 3 inches of cold water. Let them soak overnight (at least 8 hours).
⏱️ Overnight (8+ hours) - 2
Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Transfer them to a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add the 8 cups of water or broth, ensuring the beans are fully submerged. Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beans simmer gently. Cook until the beans are very tender and easily crushed between your fingers. This can take anywhere from 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the age and type of beans. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during the first hour of simmering.
⏱️ 2.5 - 3 hours - 4
Once the beans are tender, add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and the sofrito to the pot. Stir well to combine. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 5
Season the soup generously with salt and black pepper to taste. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup. Be careful not to over-blend if you want some texture.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Serve the Sopa de Caraotas hot. It is traditionally served with a side of white rice and can be garnished with chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
⏱️ Serving
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a creamier consistency, mash some of the cooked beans against the side of the pot with a spoon, or use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup before serving.
- ✓This soup is classic comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening.
- ✓Serve piping hot with a side of fluffy white rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a piece of smoked pork (like a ham hock or bacon) during the initial bean cooking stage for added depth of flavor.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the simmering time uncovered in step 4, or mash more beans.