Vegan Charro Bean and Rice Soup

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Mar 16, 2026

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This vegan charro bean and rice soup is one of my favorite knockout hearty soups that tastes like it simmered all day – but comes together in under half an hour! It’s packed with smoky cumin, tender rice, hearty charro beans, sweet charred corn, and just enough green chiles to give it that warm Southwestern flavor.

It’s the kind of soup that feels filling without being heavy – it’s a favorite for me during Lent! The rice thickens the broth naturally, the beans make it satisfying, and the charred street corn adds little pops of sweetness and texture. It’s completely plant-based, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

A close-up of a spoonful of thick, hearty vegetable and rice stew with visible corn, tomatoes, and herbs.

A bowl of vegetable and rice soup with corn, beans, tomatoes, and chopped herbs on top, placed on a green cloth.

Close-up of a bowl of vegetable and bean soup with corn, tomatoes, rice, and chopped cilantro garnish.

A bowl of vegetable soup with rice, corn, beans, tomatoes, and green herbs, served on a light blue cloth.

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At Sweet C’s, I add lots of tips in all of my recipes – because I am a home cook without any formal training, and I find I am more confident making dishes when I understand why it works, and what each ingredient means to the flavor of a recipe. My goal is for even the most beginner home cook to feel empowered in the kitchen.

How to Make Vegan Charro Bean Soup
Tips for the Best Charro Bean Soup
Vegan Charro Bean and Rice Soup Recipe

How to Make Vegan Charro Bean Soup

This vegan charro bean and rice soup is hearty, smoky, and full of bold flavor from cumin, green chiles, charred corn, and seasoned beans. A comforting one-pot plant-based dinner that’s filling, affordable, and perfect for leftovers.

Ingredients for Vegan Charro Bean and Rice Soup

Olive oil – Helps sauté the aromatics and builds the savory base of the soup.
Onion – Adds natural sweetness and depth, forming the foundation of flavor.
Bell pepper – Brings subtle sweetness, texture, and color that balance the smoky elements.
Garlic – Provides bold, savory warmth that enhances the overall richness.
Cumin – Adds earthy, smoky spice that gives the soup its classic charro-style flavor.
Diced tomatoes with juices – Contribute acidity, brightness, and body to the broth.
Diced green chiles – Add mild heat and Southwestern flavor without overwhelming spice.
Long-grain white rice – Makes the soup hearty and filling while naturally thickening as it cooks.
Vegan charro beans (or seasoned pinto beans) – Provide protein, creaminess, and the signature charro flavor profile.
Frozen charred street corn – Adds sweetness, texture, and a subtle smoky depth.
Vegetable stock – Forms the flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
Salt and black pepper – Balance and enhance all the flavors in the soup.
Optional toppings:
Tortilla strips – Add crunchy texture and a classic Southwestern finish.
Cilantro – Adds fresh, bright contrast.
Avocado – Brings creamy richness.
Lime wedges – Provide acidity and brightness that wake up the flavors.