Mexican Pinto Bean Soup | Easy Stew Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, then you absolutely must try this Mexican Pinto Bean Soup | Easy Stew Recipe. It’s a vibrant, healthy, and soul-warming soup that combines fire-roasted tomatoes, tender pinto beans, and a blend of smoky spices to create a delicious bowl of goodness. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup delivers all the punchy Mexican-inspired flavors with a smooth, velvety texture thanks to partially blending the beans and vegetables. Get ready for a recipe that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in layering the flavor and texture. From aromatic sautéed onions to tender potatoes, these staples create a rich and satisfying base for the stew.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing, adding a subtle fruity richness.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Builds sweetness and depth when cooked down.
• 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes: Adds smoky, tangy flavor and vibrant color.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with classic aromatic warmth.
• 2 small (150 g) carrots, peeled and diced: Provides natural sweetness and hearty texture.
• 1 medium (135 g) potato, peeled and diced: Gives creaminess when blended and thickens the stew.
• 1 tsp oregano, dried: Brings an earthy, herbal note that complements the spices.
• 1 tsp ground cumin: Essential for that warm, slightly nutty Mexican flavor.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that elevates the soup’s profile.
• Red pepper flakes to taste: A touch of heat to awaken your taste buds.
• 2 bay leaves (optional): Infuses a subtle complexity while simmering.
• 2 cups vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
• 2 (14 oz) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed: The star protein, providing creaminess and earthiness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To balance and enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Mexican Pinto Bean Soup | Easy Stew Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium to high heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook stirring frequently for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent. This step builds the foundational sweetness and savory notes that will deepen as the soup cooks.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Vegetables, and Spices

Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot, along with the oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Let the aromatics cook with the spices for 1 to 2 minutes until everything smells wonderfully fragrant, which will make you eager to dive in.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaves if you’re using them. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover with a lid. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 to 15 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Pinto Beans and Cook Further

Next, stir in the drained and rinsed pinto beans. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and the veggies are fork-tender. This part is where the beans start to release their creamy texture into the broth.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess and Season

Carefully ladle about half of the soup into a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree until smooth or to your desired consistency. Stir this back into the pot to create a soup that is rich, velvety, yet still chunky. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. A splash of lime juice here brightens everything up and makes the flavors pop!

How to Serve Mexican Pinto Bean Soup | Easy Stew Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some shredded cheese on top for added freshness and richness. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brings a bright, zesty finish that perfectly balances the smoky warmth of the soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or soft corn tortillas to scoop up every last drop. A simple green salad or sliced avocado on the side makes it a more substantial meal with contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homestyle vibe, or pour it into small shooter glasses as an appetizer for parties. You can also turn leftovers into a dip by thickening the soup with cheese and serving it with tortilla chips for a fun twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy weekday lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This Mexican Pinto Bean Soup | Easy Stew Recipe freezes wonderfully. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some room at the top for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency as it thickens when chilled.

FAQs

Can I use dried pinto beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them separately until tender before adding to the soup. This will enhance the texture and flavor but requires extra time and planning.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! This Mexican Pinto Bean Soup | Easy Stew Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, using only plant-based ingredients and no wheat-containing products, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

How spicy is the soup?

The heat level is adjustable! The red pepper flakes can be added sparingly for mild warmth or generously for a spicier kick. It’s all about your personal preference.

Can I substitute other beans?

You can! Black beans or kidney beans would work well in this recipe, though pinto beans provide a particularly creamy texture and classic flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup if it’s too watery?

Besides blending part of the soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid or add a small potato or more beans for natural thickening. Avoid flour or cornstarch to keep it gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Pinto Bean Soup | Easy Stew Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm, flavorful hug from the inside out. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and comforting with every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this soup is a wonderful choice that’s both satisfying and full of vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors. Give it a try—you’ll want to make it again and again!

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