Have you ever craved a bowl of comforting warmth on a chilly evening? Then my friend, prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will transport you to a cozy haven of flavor: Tomato soup with rice. This isn’t your grandma’s watery tomato soup; this is a vibrant, rich, and intensely satisfying bowl of goodness.
Picture this: a deep crimson hue, the subtle sweetness of ripe tomatoes mingling with the comforting heartiness of rice, all topped with a swirl of fragrant herbs. It’s the perfect antidote to a long day, a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to culinary heights.
This Tomato soup with rice boasts several fantastic features:
It’s incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for even the busiest weeknights.
The flavor is rich and complex, a delightful dance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
Its vibrant color makes it a visually appealing dish, perfect for impressing guests or simply brightening your day.
Its versatility allows for endless customization with different herbs, spices, and toppings.
Ingredients for Tomato soup with rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Tomato soup with rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Finely chop the onion and garlic. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and optional sugar to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Incorporate the Rice
Stir in the long-grain rice and continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly. You want a nice, creamy consistency.
Step 4: Blend for Smoothness (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully use an immersion blender to blend a portion or all of the soup to your desired consistency. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Stir in the fresh basil and serve hot.
Step 6: Serving Suggestions
Serve your Tomato soup with rice in warm bowls. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (vegetarian) adds a delightful finishing touch. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful soup!
Remember, this recipe is your canvas. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your perfect bowl of Tomato soup with rice. Add a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for an earthy aroma. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination! Enjoy!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, sauté your diced chicken breast until golden brown. Then, simmer your rice in vegetable broth until tender. Finally, blend the cooked chicken with your tomato base, creating a smooth and flavorful soup. Combine with rice, and season.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. Feel free to swap the chicken for beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tomato soup with rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
Use a good quality canned tomato for the richest flavor. Don’t overcook the rice; it should be tender but still have a slight bite. A little bit of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
My grandmother’s recipe for this soup is a family favorite. Her secret? Slow cooking unlocks the deepest tomato flavor. It always brings back wonderful memories.
Tomato Soup with Rice
: A Recipe for Comfort and Joy
This hearty tomato soup with rice is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of simmering tomatoes filling your kitchen, the comforting warmth spreading through your body with each spoonful. That’s the magic of this dish. It’s a simple recipe, but the results are extraordinary. The vibrant red color, the rich and savory flavor, the perfect blend of textures – it’s a symphony for your senses. And it’s surprisingly easy to make! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, effortless brunches, or satisfying lunches. The versatility is also a big plus. Feel free to customize it to your liking. This tomato soup with rice truly is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Gathering Your Ingredients for a Flavorful Feast
Before you embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients: two pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, one large onion finely chopped, two cloves garlic minced, twenty-eight ounces of canned crushed tomatoes, four cups of vegetable broth, one cup of long-grain rice, two tablespoons of olive oil, one teaspoon of dried oregano, half a teaspoon of dried basil, salt and pepper to taste. Make sure your vegetable broth is low sodium so you can control the salt level of your soup. You might be tempted to skip the herbs, but trust me, they add layers of flavor you won’t want to miss.
Cooking Up a Storm
: A Step-by-Step Guide
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about five minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the oregano and basil, allowing the spices to bloom and release their delicious aromas. Next, add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
While your tomato base simmers, prepare the chicken. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil and sauté the chicken until cooked through and golden brown. Setting aside the cooked chicken keeps the soup from becoming watery. This little extra step makes a big difference in the texture and overall quality of your tomato soup with rice.
Once the tomato base has simmered, gently stir in the cooked chicken and the rice. Continue to simmer until the rice is cooked through, usually about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Some people like it a little more salty, while others prefer a milder flavor. The beauty of cooking is that you can always tailor the dish to your individual taste buds.
Finishing Touches for a Perfect Bowl
Before serving, taste your tomato soup with rice and adjust the seasoning as needed. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add brightness and lift the overall flavor profile. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a beautiful final touch. This elevated version takes your tomato soup with rice from simple comfort food to a gourmet experience.
Tomato Soup with Rice
: Variations and Serving Suggestions
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Adding carrots, celery, or zucchini would add a nice textural element and boost the nutritional value. You can also experiment with different types of rice. Brown rice, for example, will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber. For a creamier version, blend a portion of the soup before adding the rice. This will give your soup a smoother consistency.
Serve your tomato soup with rice hot, garnished with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a slice of crusty bread. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, a light lunch, or a hearty brunch. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious, leaving you feeling warm and content.
Remember, cooking is an art form. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own personal touch to this classic recipe. The most important ingredient is your love and passion for creating something delicious. Enjoy your culinary journey, and may your tomato soup with rice always bring you joy.
Conclusion for Tomato Soup with Rice
This Tomato Soup with Rice recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch. Its easy-to-follow instructions and readily available ingredients make it an ideal choice for home cooks of all skill levels. The best part? The incredible taste that’ll leave you wanting more. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of homemade tomato soup with rice! Remember to adjust seasonings to match your own palate for a truly personalized experience.
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Tomato soup with rice
Delicious tomato soup with rice recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, rice, basil, and oregano to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly.
- Step 4: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes before serving. You can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for a smoother texture if desired.
Notes
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For smooth reheating, gently warm the soup in a saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve your tomato soup with rice alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort food pairing.
- To enhance the flavor, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for a few extra minutes until they're nicely caramelized before adding the remaining ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
FAQs
Can I make this Tomato Soup with Rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! This tomato soup with rice is even better the next day. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, allowing the rice to absorb all the delicious tomato goodness. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy easy, comforting meals throughout the week. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is a breeze – simply gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. No need to rush; savor the slow-cooked perfection!
What kind of rice is best for this recipe?
While you can experiment, long-grain white rice works best for this Tomato Soup with Rice. It holds its shape well after cooking and doesn’t become mushy, which is crucial for a satisfying soup experience. Arborio rice, while delicious in other dishes, might make the soup too creamy. Avoid instant rice as it may not have the desired texture. For a healthier option, consider using brown rice but be mindful that the cooking time might need adjustment.
Is this Tomato Soup with Rice recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian. It’s packed with flavor from fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and savory broth, making it a delicious and satisfying meal without any meat. We’ve avoided any animal products, ensuring it’s suitable for a vegetarian diet. It’s the perfect comforting vegetarian meal for a cozy night in. Feel free to add your favorite vegetarian-friendly toppings, like a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh basil.
Can I adjust the spice level in this Tomato Soup with Rice?
Certainly! This recipe is easily adaptable to your spice preferences. If you prefer a milder soup, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. For those who love a bit of a kick, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also experiment with different spices like cumin or smoked paprika to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of your tomato soup with rice. Remember, cooking is all about personalizing your creations!