Heat a soup pot over medium heat and add the olive oil.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Once the pot is hot, add the onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until translucent.
1 medium onion
Add the potatoes and garlic and stir. Cook for another minute to brown the garlic slightly.
3 cloves garlic, 2 medium potatoes
Add the cumin, salt, hot pepper, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine, cooking for about 30 seconds to release the oils in the spices.
1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Add the tomatoes, water, and beans. Stir to mix, then increase the heat and cover to bring the soup to a rolling boil. Once the soup reaches a boil, decrease the heat and simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes the potatoes should be fork-soft and the soup is ready to serve. Taste and season if needed, then serve hot with any desired toppings.