Sopa de Frijoles con Papas y Chile Verde 🌶🥔
If you’re craving a warm, soul-soothing dish packed with authentic Mexican flavors, Sopa de Frijoles con Papas y Chile Verde is just what you need. This comforting bean soup layers tender beans, crispy golden potatoes, and the smoky heat of roasted green chiles in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or as a hearty appetizer, this recipe is a celebration of classic, rustic Mexican cooking.
🌟 Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked or canned pinto or black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup chopped roasted green chile (Hatch chiles recommended)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying and sautéing)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ 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; cook until softened and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
Stir in the cumin and oregano, cooking for 1 minute to release their 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 fried potatoes.
Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soak up the flavorful broth.
5️⃣ Incorporate the Cheese
Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
🍋 Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a bright finish.
- Accompaniments: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty touch and warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.
🔥 Tips for Success
- Bean Variety: Pinto beans give a creamy, hearty texture, while black beans offer an earthy, slightly sweet flavor.
- Green Chile: Roasted Hatch chiles deliver authentic smoky heat, but Anaheim or poblano peppers make great milder substitutes.
- Make Ahead: The soup can be made in advance; flavors deepen and improve as it sits.
- Customizable: Add diced carrots, corn, or zucchini for extra veggies—or toss in shredded chicken or crumbled chorizo for added protein.
💛 Why You’ll Love It
Sopa de Frijoles con Papas y Chile Verde is true Mexican comfort food at its best.
The crispy potatoes add texture, the beans offer satisfying protein, and the roasted green chiles infuse every spoonful with smoky, tangy warmth.
It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and absolutely packed with rich, vibrant flavor.
¡Buen provecho! 🌶🥔