Sopa de Frijoles con Papas y Chile Verde 🌶🥔
This Bean Soup with Fried Potatoes and Green Chile is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender beans, crispy potatoes, and the smoky kick of roasted green chile. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, showcasing authentic Mexican flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups beans (pinto or black, cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup chopped green chile (roasted Hatch chiles for the best flavor)
- 4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying potatoes and sautéing)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, queso fresco, or Monterey Jack)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Fry the Potatoes
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Fry, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown (about 8–10 minutes).
- Remove the potatoes from the pan and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the cumin and oregano, cooking for an additional 1 minute to release the spices’ flavors.
3️⃣ Build the Soup Base
- Add the cooked beans and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
4️⃣ Add Green Chile and Potatoes
- Stir in the roasted green chile and the fried potatoes.
- Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soak up the broth’s flavors.
5️⃣ Incorporate the Cheese
- Turn off the heat and add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Accompaniments: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish and warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Bean Variety: Pinto beans provide a creamy texture, while black beans add an earthy, slightly sweeter flavor.
- Green Chile: Roasted Hatch chiles deliver an authentic smoky heat, but you can substitute with Anaheim or poblano peppers for milder spice.
- Make Ahead: The soup can be prepared in advance and reheated; the flavors deepen over time.
- Customizable: Add diced carrots, corn, or zucchini for extra veggies. For a heartier option, include shredded chicken or chorizo.
Why You’ll Love It
Sopa de Frijoles con Papas y Chile Verde is the ultimate comfort food. The crispy potatoes add texture, the beans provide protein, and the green chile gives it a delightful smoky kick. This recipe is easy to prepare yet full of vibrant flavors, making it a must-try for fans of Mexican cuisine.
¡Buen provecho! 🌶🥔