Black Bean Soup

Sort and wash beans; place in a large saucepan. Cover with water to 2 inches above beans; bring to a boil. Cook 2 minutes; remove from heat. Cover and let stand 1 hour. Drain beans.

Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add oil; swirl to coat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook 8 minutes or until tender, stirring frequently. Add cumin, oregano, and garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add beans, vegetable broth, and water. Bring to a boil; partially cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour and 30 minutes or until beans are tender.

Place half of bean mixture in a blender. Remove center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Place a clean towel over opening in blender lid (to avoid splatters). Blend until smooth. Return pureed soup to pan. Stir in lime juice and next 3 ingredients (through black pepper). Ladle soup into bowls; top evenly with cheese, and if desired, onion, sour cream, and cilantro.

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