This is a delightful soup and very easy to make! I found this recipe while looking for an idea of what to make with some excess black beans (from dry) I had made for some empanadas. I do agree with the other reviews that it is best used as a base. Since this was a last minute addition to my meal and I did not have the peas on hand, I used extra black beans (I think this may have been an aesthetic improvement as I noticed some of the other reviews stated that it had an odd color that I did not notice) and did add some of the leftover sauteed onions I had already made (seasoned with cumin, chili powder and a pinch of cinnamon). I used vegetable broth rather than a chicken stock to make it a vegetarian soup and I threw in a few dashes of corn meal to thicken it up a little. Then, I took the suggestion from previous reviewer and added some sauteed mushrooms along with about a tablespoon of chili powder and some minced garlic to spice it up some. Finally, I topped it with chopped fresh cilantro and squeezed some of the excess lime juice right on top before serving (feta or cotija cheese or even some creme friache would have also been a good garnish for this soup if I'd had some). My family loved it and it went really well with the black bean and cheese empanadas. Thanks!

Reviewed On: Sep. 23, 2007

I was very impressed with the way this soup turned out and will definately me making it again. I made the soup in a crockpot rather than baking as directed however and I substituted the dried basil for fresh dill which gave it a nice kick. **Addition to original review. I have made this soup many times since I originally found this recipe two years ago and I must say, it has been a real hit and has easily become one of my favorite winter meals. Best served with french bread, warm out of the oven.

Reviewed On: Feb. 20, 2005