Rinse the dried black beans under cold water, then add them to the crockpot along with the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth.
Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Let everything simmer gently for about 8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors meld—your kitchen will fill with a smoky, earthy aroma.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until it’s thick and velvety, leaving some beans whole for texture.
Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of good olive oil to brighten and enrich the soup’s flavor.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more salt, lemon, or smoked paprika for extra depth.
Ladle the hot, thickened soup into bowls, and finish with an extra swirl of olive oil or fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately, enjoying the warm, smoky aroma and silky texture.