Black Bean Soup that tastes just like Panera’s

This past weekend, my mom came to visit to help out with wedding stuff, visit with me, and see the new apartment.  It was an amazing weekend, and I can’t wait for her to come visit again.

If you follow me on Instagram then you already know that Mom made a delicious black bean soup that seriously tastes just like (maybe even better!)  than the black bean soup at Panera Bread.

I am not kidding when I say that Brian could not get enough of this soup, and I immediately asked for the recipe.  Having this soup for lunch on Saturday was not enough…I made this soup again on Sunday to eat for quick dinners throughout the week.  I am pretty sure that Brian and I could eat this tasty dish every. single. day. without getting sick of it!

Not only is this soup super yummy, but it also takes very little time to prepare…seriously, I don’t think this soup could get any better.

Thank you, Mom, for sharing the recipe with me, so now I can share this delicious recipe with all of you!

Panera Black Bean Soup Copycat

Yields: about 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 1/2 large red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 small chicken bouillon cubes (I actually used 2 cups of vegetable stock in place of the chicken bouillon and water)
• 2 cups boiling water
• 3 (15 oz) cans black beans, undrained
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne powder
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch

Directions:

In a pot, combine the first six ingredients; simmer for 10 minutes.
Add 1 can of beans, salt, chili powder, cayenne and cumin; cook for 5 minutes.
Puree soup in blender or food processor.
Add the rest of the beans to the soup.
Combine the cornstarch with 1 1/2 tablespoons of cold water.
Add the lemon and the cornstarch to the soup; cook until thickened.

ENJOY!!

Of Possible Interest:

• 5 Healthy Casserole Recipes:  Greatist
• 14 Vegan Friendly Soup Recipes:  Fitsugar
• 4 Everyday Habits that Mess with your Workout:  Fitsugar