A hearty and flavorful soup combining black beans, avocado, and a blend of spices for a comforting meal.
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Using extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor to the base of the soup.
Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Stir in the ground cumin, cayenne powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and sugar, and cook until fragrant.
Toasting the spices enhances their aroma and flavor.
Add the chopped plum tomatoes and black beans to the pot and cook for a few minutes.
Using canned beans speeds up the cooking process.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Blend a portion of the soup until smooth and return it to the pot.
Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for variety.
Stir in the diced avocado and lime juice, and heat through.
Adding the avocado at the end preserves its creamy texture.
Serve the soup in bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese.
For a vibrant presentation, add a sprig of fresh cilantro on top.