Tomato soup

Tomato soup with vegetables and rice – a fragrant and comforting delight

When we think of tomato soup, warm memories of family meals, winter days, and the comfort of a steaming bowl come to mind. This recipe for tomato soup with vegetables and rice is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it perfect for any time of the day. The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour, and from this quantity, you will get 4 generous servings.

Let’s embark together on the preparation of this delicious soup!

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 large potato
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 kg ripe tomatoes, preferably from the garden, for a perfect taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or another vegetable oil of your choice)
- 2 liters of water (or vegetable broth for an even more intense flavor)
- 5 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Cooked rice, to taste (the amount depends on individual preference, but 100-150 g is ideal)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion, carrot, and red bell pepper. The potato should be cut into small cubes to cook evenly. Make sure the tomatoes are well-ripened, as they will bring a sweet and sour flavor to your soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the carrot and red bell pepper, allowing them to sauté together for another 5 minutes. This step will enhance the flavors.

3. Adding the potato: Next, add the potato cubes and mix well. Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables cook on low heat for 10 minutes. This will allow the vegetables to soften and release their natural juices.

4. Boiling the soup: After 10 minutes, add 2 liters of water or vegetable broth. Cover the pot again and let the soup simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. It is important to ensure that the heat is low enough to prevent intense boiling, which can affect the texture of the soup.

5. Blending the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the vegetables until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, being careful to transfer the soup in small batches. After blending, strain the soup through a sieve to remove any remaining chunks and achieve a velvety texture.

6. Seasoning the soup: Place the pot with the soup back on the heat. Add 5 tablespoons of tomato paste and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to bring to a boil for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors combine.

7. Preparing the rice: While the soup is boiling, you can prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Whether you choose white, brown, or whole grain rice, make sure it is well-cooked and drained.

8. Serving the soup: In plates or bowls, add a serving of cooked rice and pour the hot tomato soup over it. A personal touch is to garnish with a few cubes of toasted bread for added texture and a comforting taste.

9. Serving suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a slice of homemade bread. You can accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or a fragrant herbal tea, which will enhance the flavors of the soup.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomato soup is rich in vitamin C, lycopene, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for strengthening the immune system. The added vegetables, such as carrot and potato, provide fiber and essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet.

Vegetarian option:
If you want to turn this recipe into a vegan option, make sure to use vegetable broth without animal-derived ingredients. You can also add tofu or cooked chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes are an excellent option, especially in winter when fresh tomatoes are not available. Make sure to choose whole tomatoes in their own juice for the best flavor.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can add some finely chopped fresh chili pepper or chili flakes during the boiling process.

3. Is there a version of tomato soup without blending?
Of course! If you prefer a chunky soup, you can leave the vegetables cut into large cubes without blending. This will provide a different experience, but just as delicious.

This simple recipe for tomato soup with vegetables and rice is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy and comforting choice for any meal. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a bowl of happiness on your plate!

 Ingredients: 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 (large) potato, 1 red bell pepper, 2 kg of well-ripened tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of oil, 2 liters of water (or vegetable broth if available), 5 tablespoons of tomato paste, rice (depends on how much is desired)

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