Black Bean Soup

This recipe is one of my favorite's and it was given to me by my good friend, Jurist, one of my Jersey girls. Enjoy!

2 tablespoons oil
1 medium onion chopped
4 cloves garlic minced
1/2 to 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
3 16oz. cans black beans
1 1/2 c. chicken broth
3 cups of mild-chunky salsa
2 tbsp. of lime juice

In 4 quart stockpot heat the oil. Add onions, garlic, and red pepperflakes. Cook over medium heat until onion is tender. (about 3 minutes) Remove from heat.

In a blender, puree 2 cans of black beans and their liquid in batches with chicken broth. Add to the pot and stir in remaining beans and salsa and lime juice. Heat to boil. Reduce heat to low-simmer for 30 minutes.

Serve with cheese/sour cream if preferred.