Instant Pot Black Bean Soup

 INGREDIENTS:

1 small red onion,, diced

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1/2 bunch of cilantro, stems and leaves divided

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 tablespoon of ground cumin

2 tablespoons of chili powder

1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)

14 ounces dry black beans (about 2 cups)

3 cups of vegetable broth, plus extra water

juice and zest of 1 lime.

Salt, to taste

salsa for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. First, add the red onion, garlic and diced cilantro into the Instant Pot with a splash of water, Using the saute' setting, cook the veggies for 2-3 minutes, or until translucent.
2. Next, add the red pepper and spices to the Instant Pot, and saute for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Then, add the dried black beans to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Stir well, then slowly add in water to the Instant Pot until the water line is about 1 inch above the dried beans.
4. Cover and seal the Instant Pot then set the pressure to "manual high" for 30 minutes.
5. Force release the pressure from the Instant Pot and carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender or by transferring to a VitaMix.
6. Pour into  bowls and garnish as desired. Suggestions include: Salsa, Sour Cream, and avacado or guacamole.