Tomato-Rice Soup

Tomato-Rice Soup with Parmesan Cheese and Cayenne

| Servings: 6

Introduction

Tomato-Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a chilly day. This soup is a delicious combination of tomatoes, rice, and seasonings that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Tomato-Rice Soup has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Italy, where tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many dishes. Over time, variations of this soup have been created in different regions, each with its own unique twist on the classic recipe.

Ingredients

0.25 cup chopped onions
1 tbsp margarine
6 cups water
1 medium potato, diced
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp cayenne
freshly-ground black pepper to taste
0.5 cup rice
1 cup chopped peeled tomato
parmesan cheese, optional

How to prepare

Saute the onions in margarine. Then, add water, potato, and seasonings.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Next, add rice and tomato to the pot.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.
Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on each serving to enhance the flavor.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Stir in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions until they are translucent to bring out their natural sweetness.

- Adding Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking will add a rich and savory flavor to the soup.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more cayenne for a spicier soup or more black pepper for a bolder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato-Rice Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier fat option.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato-Rice Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Tomato-Rice Soup with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Tomato-Rice Soup contains approximately 150 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie meal option.

Carbohydrates

Tomato-Rice Soup is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with the rice and tomatoes providing a good source of energy. One serving of this soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This soup is relatively low in fat, with only a small amount of margarine used for sautéing the onions. Each serving contains about 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

While Tomato-Rice Soup is not a high-protein dish, it does contain some protein from the rice and vegetables. Each serving provides around 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and potassium from the potatoes. It also contains small amounts of iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy in the form of Parmesan cheese, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. It is also gluten-free, making it a good option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, Tomato-Rice Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Tomato-Rice Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tomato-Rice Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. My mother had received a letter from her dear friend Maria, who lived in a neighboring town, with the recipe enclosed. Maria had raved about this soup, saying it was the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.

I watched with fascination as my mother carefully read through the recipe, taking note of each ingredient and step. The combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and rice seemed like pure magic to me. I had always loved helping my mother in the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to try my hand at making this soup.

The next day, my mother and I set out to gather the ingredients we needed. We walked to the local market, where we picked out the plumpest, ripest tomatoes we could find. We also bought fresh garlic, onions, and a bag of arborio rice. As we made our way back home, I couldn't stop thinking about the delicious soup we were going to make.

Back in our cozy kitchen, my mother and I got to work. She showed me how to peel and chop the tomatoes, mince the garlic, and dice the onions. I carefully measured out the rice, making sure to rinse it thoroughly before adding it to the pot. The aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

As the soup simmered on the stove, my mother and I took turns stirring and tasting, adjusting the seasoning until it was just right. Finally, after what seemed like hours of waiting, the soup was ready. We ladled it into bowls, garnishing each one with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

I took my first spoonful of the Tomato-Rice Soup and was immediately transported to a world of flavor and comfort. The rich tomato base was perfectly complemented by the creamy rice, creating a dish that was both hearty and satisfying. I couldn't believe that I had helped create something so delicious.

From that day on, Tomato-Rice Soup became a staple in our household. My mother and I would make it whenever we needed a warm, comforting meal to lift our spirits. Over the years, I have made this soup countless times, each time adding my own twist or variation to the recipe.

I've shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of Tomato-Rice Soup to the next generation. It never fails to bring a smile to their faces and warm their hearts. And every time I make it, I can't help but think back to that first time I saw the recipe and felt that sense of wonder and excitement.

As I sit here now, in my kitchen filled with the aroma of simmering tomatoes and garlic, I am grateful for the memories and traditions that have been passed down to me. The recipe for Tomato-Rice Soup is more than just a dish – it is a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and care that went into every bowl. And as I take a spoonful of the soup, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful moments and meals that have brought me to this place.