Venezuelan Dinner: Spicy Black Bean Soup & Vegetarian Arepas with Avocado Salsa

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

• For the Spicy Black Bean Soup: + 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained + 2 tablespoons olive oil + 1 large onion, finely chopped + 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped + 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped + 3 cloves garlic, minced + 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped + 2 teaspoons ground cumin + 1 teaspoon smoked paprika + 4 cups vegetable broth + Salt to taste For the Vegetarian Arepas with Avocado Salsa: + 2 cups masarepa (pre
• cooked corn flour) + 3 cups warm water + 1 teaspoon salt + 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided + For the avocado salsa:
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• Juice of one lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. For the Spicy Black Bean Soup: + In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell peppers, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, and smoked paprika, and cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. + Stir in soaked and drained black beans, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender, about 1 hour. For the Vegetarian Arepas with Avocado Salsa: + In a large bowl, combine masarepa, warm water, and salt. Mix well and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the masarepa to absorb the water. + Knead dough until it comes together, then divide into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a 1 inch thick disk. + Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non stick skillet over medium heat. Cook arepas for about 5 minutes per side or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Repeat with the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and arepa dough. + For the avocado salsa, combine diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is truly unique, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for vegetarians and carnivores alike.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the spice level of the soup according to your preference.