One-Pot Mexicali Black Bean Soup with the Works

Step 1

Wash and dry produce. Halve, peel, and finely dice onion until you have ¾ cup (1½ cups for 4 servings). Drain beans over a small bowl, reserving liquid.

Step 2

Heat a large drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion. Cook, stirring, until softened, 3-4 minutes. Add Southwest Spice; cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste and Tex-Mex paste; cook until slightly darkened in color, 1 minute.

Step 3

Stir 1¾ cups water, stock concentrates, beans, and ¼ cup reserved bean liquid into pot. (For 4 servings, use 3 cups water and ½ cup bean liquid.) Bring to a boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, 5-8 minutes. TIP: Prefer your broth a bit thicker? Simmer a little longer—or simmer a little less if you prefer a thinner broth! You’re the chef, after all. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Turn off heat.

Step 4

Crush a few tortilla chips. Divide soup between bowls and top with white cheddar, smoky red pepper crema, and as many crushed tortilla chips as you like. (TIP: Start with a few crushed chips and add more as you go to keep them crunchy!) Serve with whole tortilla chips on the side.