Vegetable Rice Soup

Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe | Delicious and Nutritious

Region / culture: Switzerland, USA | Servings: 6

Introduction

Vegetable rice soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day. This recipe is packed with vegetables, flavorful broth, and hearty rice, making it a satisfying and delicious option for lunch or dinner.

History

Vegetable rice soup has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in cuisines around the world. This recipe is a simple and classic version that highlights the natural flavors of the vegetables and rice.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 medium onions, sliced
1 carrot, shredded
2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
2 cans (14.5 oz or 411 g each) vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 tsp italian seasoning
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
3 cups cooked rice

How to prepare

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven.
Add onions and sauté for about 5 minutes or until slightly browned.
Add carrot and celery and sauté for about 3 minutes.
Add broth, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with 0.5 cup of rice.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Stir in a handful of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro before serving.
For a creamy version, blend half of the soup in a blender until smooth and then mix it back into the pot.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions until they are slightly browned to enhance their sweetness and depth of flavor.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

- For a heartier soup, you can add cooked chicken or tofu to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve vegetable rice soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a simple sautéing and simmering technique to build flavor and cook the vegetables until tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.

- Swap out the rice for quinoa or barley for a different texture and taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make a big batch of vegetable rice soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Pair vegetable rice soup with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing and complementary drink option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover vegetable rice soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of vegetable rice soup contains approximately 200 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of vegetable rice soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

This soup is low in fat, with only 1 gram per serving, making it a healthy option for those watching their fat intake.

Proteins

Each serving of vegetable rice soup contains 3 grams of protein, providing a good amount of this essential nutrient for your body.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, thanks to the variety of vegetables used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as dairy, nuts, and gluten, making it a safe option for those with food sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, vegetable rice soup is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Vegetable rice soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with vegetables, flavorful broth, and hearty rice, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a cold winter evening, and I was visiting my friend Margaret for dinner. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma. Margaret was busy stirring a pot of steaming vegetable rice soup, and I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe.

Margaret smiled and told me that it was a family recipe passed down from her grandmother. She explained that the key to the soup's delicious flavor was using fresh vegetables and homemade broth. As she showed me how to prepare the soup, I was struck by how easy it was to make. It was a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients that came together to create a hearty and satisfying meal.

I knew right then and there that I had to add this recipe to my collection. I asked Margaret if she would be willing to share it with me, and she gladly wrote it down on a piece of paper. I thanked her profusely and promised to make the soup for my own family soon.

When I got home that night, I wasted no time in trying out the recipe. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work chopping vegetables, sautéing onions, and simmering the broth. The soup filled my kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma, just like it had at Margaret's house. I couldn't wait to sit down and enjoy a bowl of homemade vegetable rice soup.

As I took my first spoonful of the soup, I was transported back to Margaret's kitchen. The flavors were rich and comforting, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I made sure to write it down in my recipe book, along with a note to always use fresh ingredients and take my time when preparing it.

Over the years, I have made vegetable rice soup countless times. It has become a go-to recipe for me, especially during the colder months. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its delicious taste and nourishing qualities.

One of my fondest memories of making this soup was when my grandchildren came to visit. They were curious to see what I was cooking and eagerly helped me chop vegetables and stir the pot. As we sat down to eat together, I watched their faces light up with delight as they took their first spoonfuls of the soup. It warmed my heart to see them enjoying a recipe that had brought me so much joy over the years.

As I grow older, I realize that sharing recipes like vegetable rice soup is a way of passing down a part of myself to the next generation. Each time I make this soup, I am reminded of the simple pleasures of cooking and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and nourishing meal, look no further than a bowl of homemade vegetable rice soup. It may be a simple recipe, but it holds a special place in my heart and has brought me closer to the ones I love. I hope that you will enjoy making it as much as I have, and that it will become a cherished recipe in your own collection. Happy cooking!