Black Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 3 (15-ounce) cans no-salt-added black beans, drained
• 2 (14-ounce) cans fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium)
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (about 1 medium)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 pound extra-lean cooked ham, diced
• 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation

1. Combine first 5 ingredients in a Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 30 minutes.
2. Transfer 2 cups bean mixture to a blender or food processor; process until smooth, stopping once to scrape down sides. Return pureed bean mixture to pan. Add ham and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 20 minutes or until thickened.