SOUTHWESTERN BLACK BEAN SOUP RECIPES

Steps:

• Pick through the beans and discard any debris - wash under cold running water. In a food processor, add garlic, onion, bell pepper, and cilantro.
• Set a large pot over medium heat and add a 3-count of olive oil. Add the oregano and cumin. Add vegetable puree and saute until just fragrant, 7 to 10 minutes. Add beans, ham hock, jalapeno, and stock. Slightly cover and simmer for 2 hours until beans are tender.
• When cooked, remove bay leaves and take out ham hock. Cut ham meat off the bone, cut into pieces and set aside.
• Using a blender or immersion blender, puree just enough of the beans and stock (about a third of the total pot) to thicken up the soup and bring everything together. Season with salt and pepper and fold ham meat back into the soup.
• Make the crema by combining sour cream and zest. Serve each soup with a spoonful of lime crema, a squeeze of lime and some fresh cilantro.

Steps:

• In 5-quart Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook beef and onion in oil 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned.
• Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Cover; simmer 45 minutes. Uncover; simmer 30 to 45 minutes or until beef is tender.