Creating Cuban White Bean Soup is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a wonderful dish:

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Season: Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ flavors.
4. Add Beans and Broth: Pour in the drained white beans and broth. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
6. Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. This step is optional.
7. Taste and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

By following these simple steps, you can whip up a bowl of Cuban White Bean Soup that is both delicious and satisfying.