Ret Soup
Introduction
If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and easy-to-make meal, this Tomato Rice Soup Recipe is the perfect choice. Furthermore, this comforting dish is a delicious blend of tangy tomatoes, tender rice, and aromatic seasonings, making it a go-to meal for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly night or a light yet satisfying lunch, this soup has got you covered.
This Tomato Rice Soup Recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Also, you can customize it with various spices, vegetables, and proteins to suit your taste. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep since it stores and reheats well.
So, let’s dive into this delicious and nutritious tomato rice soup recipe!
Why You’ll Love Tomato Rice Soup Recipe
- Easy to Make – Requires minimal ingredients and effort.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples like tomatoes and rice.
- Customizable – Adjust spices, add vegetables, or include proteins like chicken or beans.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free Options – Easily adaptable for different diets.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well in the fridge and freezer.
Ingredients of Tomato Rice Soup Recipe
So, this tomato rice soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful dish.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds depth and sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the aroma and taste.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – Provides a rich tomato base.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth – The liquid foundation of the soup.
- 1 cup cooked rice – Adds heartiness and texture.
- 1 tsp dried basil – For an earthy, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Brings an aromatic depth.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky taste.
- ½ tsp sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances overall flavor.
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup diced carrots or bell peppers – For extra nutrition.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes – If you like a spicy kick.
- ½ cup coconut milk or heavy cream – For a creamy version.
- 1 cup shredded chicken or cooked beans – For added protein.
Necessary Tools for Tomato Rice Soup Recipe
- Large pot or Dutch oven – For cooking the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring.
- Ladle – For easy serving.
- Measuring cups & spoons – Ensuring accuracy in ingredients.
- Cutting board & knife – For chopping vegetables.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This soup is incredibly flexible. Here are some ways to customize it:
- Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth and swap dairy with coconut milk.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
- Extra Protein: Add shredded chicken, tofu, or beans.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt.
- Boost the Flavor: Add Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a squeeze of lemon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2: Build the Tomato Base
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Then, add vegetable or chicken broth, followed by basil, oregano, smoked paprika, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3: Add Rice and Finish
- Stir in the cooked rice and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- For a creamy version, stir in coconut milk or heavy cream before serving.
4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Then, garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Finally, serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Moreover, this Tomato and Rice Soup is a cozy, flavorful dish with a rich tomato base, tender rice, and aromatic seasonings, making it the perfect comfort food for any day.
Pro Tips for Success of Tomato Rice Soup Recipe
- Use Fresh Garlic and Onion – They add depth and aroma to the soup.
- Simmer Longer for Richer Flavor – The longer it simmers, the better it tastes.
- Cook Rice Separately – Moreover, to prevent it from becoming mushy in leftovers.
- Balance Acidity – Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream if the soup is too tangy.
- Make It Thicker – Additionally, blend half of the soup for a smoother, richer texture.
Serving Suggestions
This tomato rice soup pairs well with a variety of side dishes:
🥖 Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the soup.
🥗 Side Salad – A fresh, crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
🧀 Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Classic comfort food pairing.
🍷 Red Wine or Iced Tea – A great drink option for a complete meal.
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Moreover, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Add extra broth if needed – The rice will absorb liquid as it sits.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Of course, use 4–5 ripe tomatoes, peeled and blended, for a fresh taste.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, then add cooked rice before serving.
3. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
4. What kind of rice works best?
White rice, brown rice, or basmati all work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
5. Can I freeze this soup with rice?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze the soup without rice and add it when reheating.
Conclusion
To sum up, this tomato rice soup is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and warmth. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a household favorite. So, try it today, and don’t forget to customize it to make it your own!
Moreover, this Homemade Chicken Rice Soup is a comforting, nourishing bowl packed with tender chicken, hearty rice, and flavorful broth—perfect for any occasion.
