01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
04 - Reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and the mixture is thickened. Remove and discard bay leaf.
05 - While beans are braising, bring a saucepan of water to a gentle boil. Carefully add eggs and simmer for 6 minutes for soft-boiled. Transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, then gently peel.
06 - Spoon braised beans into bowls. Top each with a peeled soft-boiled egg, avocado slices, queso fresco, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
07 - Serve immediately, optionally with warm corn tortillas.