Spicy Black Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 fresh jalapeno, seeded and minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 (19 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 cups water
• 1 bay leaf

Accompaniments

• chopped cilantro
• lime wedge
• chopped white onions

Directions

1. 1

   Heat oi in a 4 to 5 quart heavy pot over med high-heat until it shimmers.

2. 2

   Saute onion, garlic and jalapeno with chili powder, cumin, oregano and salt until onion is beginning to brown, 6 to 8 minutes.

3. 3

   Add beans, water and bay leaf and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until soup has thickened slightly, about 15 minutes.

4. 4

   Transfer about 2 cups soup to a blender and puree (use caution when processing hot liquids).

5. 5

   Return to pot and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.

6. 6

   Discard bay leaf and season to taste with salt.