Black Bean Soup

I'm kind of obsessed with this soup, and its pretty healthy for you.   I actually do not put in any ham because I think cubed ham is disgusting, but I add an extra onion, an extra green bell pepper, and a couple more carrots.

BLACK BEAN SOUP

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans
• 1 (14 ounce) can chicken broth
• 2 cups cubed cooked ham
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in the onion, bell pepper, carrot, and garlic, and cook 5 minutes, until tender. Mix in 1 can black beans and chicken broth.
2. In a blender, puree remaining can of beans until smooth. Mix into the pot. Bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Mix in ham, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer 20 minutes. Garnish with Cheddar cheese and sour cream to serve.