If you ever crave a bowl of comforting warmth that dances with vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, this Tomato Rice Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with garden-fresh tomatoes and hearty rice, it’s a soul-soothing dish that brings cozy vibes to your table in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or want a light yet satisfying meal, this Tomato Rice Soup Recipe hits all the right notes with its rich texture and bright, savory taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making a delightful Tomato Rice Soup Recipe. Each component plays a key role: from the sweetness of the tomatoes to the subtle herbal notes from basil, every ingredient blends seamlessly to create delicious harmony.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing and enriches the overall flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Provides a gentle sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the soup, packed with vibrant, tangy flavor and color.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Creates a savory, comforting liquid foundation.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: Adds satisfying texture and makes the soup wonderfully filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Infuses the soup with sweet herbal notes that complement the tomatoes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing each ingredient’s character.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: A small touch to tame acidity and round out the tomato’s natural tang.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright finish that elevates every spoonful.
How to Make Tomato Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and releases its natural sweetness. This slow softening creates the perfect flavor base for your soup. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until its fragrance fills the kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour the can of crushed tomatoes along with the vegetable broth into the pot. This step introduces the rich tomato heartiness and savory depth that will come together beautifully in the soup. Give everything a good stir, making sure those onions and garlic get evenly mixed with the luscious tomato base.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Stir in the dried basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. The basil brings a lovely herbal lift, the salt and pepper balance the flavors perfectly, and the sugar quietly cuts the natural acidity in tomatoes for a smoother, mellow taste. This little trick is a game changer in any tomato soup.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld into an irresistible harmony and the soup to thicken slightly, intensifying the taste with every passing moment.
Step 5: Add the Cooked Rice
Once your soup has simmered and developed that luscious, comforting body, stir in the cooked white rice. Let it warm through for about 5 minutes. The rice soaks up the flavors while lending the perfect creamy texture that makes this Tomato Rice Soup Recipe feel like a hug in a bowl.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your palate. Spoon the soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with fresh parsley to brighten and freshen each mouthful with a delicate herbaceous note.
How to Serve Tomato Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finish that adds a burst of color and fresh flavor to this rich soup. For extra flair, try crunchy croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. These simple touches make each bowl feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This Tomato Rice Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm grilled cheese sandwich for dipping. A light green salad also complements the soup’s hearty yet fresh qualities, creating a well-rounded meal perfect for any day.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the soup in small, individual bread bowls or rustic ceramic mugs. Swirling in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving adds a creamy contrast that looks gorgeous and tastes divine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tomato Rice Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more delicious.
Freezing
Freeze any extra soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave a little space at the top as the rice may expand slightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Reheating
Reheat the soup on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even heat distribution. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water as needed to maintain the perfect soup consistency.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture to your Tomato Rice Soup Recipe. Just be aware it might need a bit longer to cook if you’re adding it uncooked, so pre-cooking it is recommended.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it uses vegetable broth and no dairy. Just double-check that your broth contains no animal ingredients, and you’re all set.
How can I make the soup creamier?
For a creamier soup, swirl in some coconut milk or a splash of heavy cream just before serving. This will add richness without overpowering the fresh tomato flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers sautéed along with the onions bring extra flavor and nutrition without complicating the preparation.
What can I do if the soup tastes too acidic?
If your Tomato Rice Soup Recipe is a bit too tangy, a small pinch of sugar or a splash of cream will help neutralize the acidity. Adding cooked rice as the recipe suggests also helps mellow the flavor naturally.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Rice Soup Recipe is a wonderful blend of simplicity and heartwarming flavors that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy tomatoes in a comforting, nourishing bowl that feels like home. Grab your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious, easy soup that’s sure to become a favorite.
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Tomato Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful tomato rice soup made with crushed tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and tender cooked rice, simmered to perfection and garnished with fresh parsley. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a light lunch or cozy dinner and packs a deliciously savory and slightly sweet taste.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add liquids: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Season the soup: Stir in dried basil, salt, pepper, and sugar to balance the acidity and enhance flavor.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Add rice: Stir in the cooked white rice and heat the soup through for another 5 minutes, ensuring the rice is warm and soft.
- Adjust and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the rice.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for extra fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth if not vegan.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the acidity of your tomatoes to balance flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
