Warm Up January with This Hearty Black Bean and Veggie Soup

January's cold, dark days can leave many feeling low. A warm bowl of Black Bean and Veggie Soup might help lift spirits while providing a nutritious meal. The dish is simple to prepare and ideal for a slow cooker.

The recipe combines black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth with olive oil, potato, corn, carrot, celery, and onion. Basil and oregano add extra flavour. Cooking on low for 7 hours yields a hearty soup that serves four.

For a crispy side, a baguette can be warmed in the oven at 350 degrees for 4 minutes. Each serving contains around 210 calories, with 8g of protein and 11g of fibre. The meal is low in fat and cholesterol-free.

The Buddhism-inspired Tzu Chi Foundation, based in Kaimuki, encourages healthy vegetarian eating. Since 2000, the group has supported the community through disaster relief, medical aid, and education. They also host free cooking classes and events like the Hawaii Vegetarian Festival to promote better nutrition and environmental awareness.

The soup offers a comforting, energy-boosting option for January. Those interested in vegetarian cooking can find more resources through the Buddhism-inspired Tzu Chi Foundation. Their local office can be reached at 808-737-8885 or via facebook.com/hawaiitzuchi.