Tomato soup with rice and pureed vegetables

Tomato soup with rice and pureed vegetables: a savory and healthy recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

How many times have you felt the need for a refreshing soup, especially on hot summer days? Tomato soup with rice and pureed vegetables is the perfect choice: light, full of flavors, and above all, very healthy. Tomatoes, the stars of this recipe, are rich in antioxidants and offer a multitude of benefits to our body. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg of well-ripened tomatoes (the choice of tomatoes is essential; look for sweet and juicy varieties)
- 2-3 carrots (about 200 g)
- 1/2 celery (50 g)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (optional, but adds a fantastic flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for a Mediterranean taste)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1.2 liters of vegetable broth or water (you can also use homemade vegetable stock)
- 80 g of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme or basil (for an extra flavor)
- Fresh chopped parsley for serving

The story behind the recipe

Tomato soup is a traditional dish appreciated in many cultures. Over time, it has evolved from a simple combination of vegetables into a refined delicacy. Tomatoes, with their sweet-tart taste, are used alongside various vegetables to create a nourishing soup full of vitamins. This recipe is perfect not only in the warm season but can be enjoyed year-round, either hot or cold.

Preparing the soup

Step 1: Preparing the tomatoes

The first step is to prepare the tomatoes. Put a pot of water on the stove and add a little salt. When the water starts to boil, turn off the heat and add the tomatoes. Let them blanch for 2-3 minutes, then remove them and let them cool slightly. After cooling, peel them and pass them through a fine sieve to remove the seeds. You will obtain a delicious and smooth tomato puree.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

Peel and chop the carrots, celery, onion, and bell pepper into small cubes. These vegetables will add a crunchy texture to your soup. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add all the other vegetables. Cover the pot and let them sweat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients

Once the vegetables have softened, add the vegetable broth or water. If you are using homemade vegetable stock, dissolve it in the necessary amount of hot water. Let everything simmer for 20 minutes over low heat. Meanwhile, cook the rice in a separate pot in salted water over low heat, following the package instructions.

Step 4: Finalizing the soup

After the vegetables have cooked, add the tomato puree, thyme or basil, and the teaspoon of sugar. Let the soup simmer for another 15-20 minutes. After this time, strain the soup and keep only half of the vegetables. Using a blender, puree the remaining vegetables and add them back to the soup. Finally, incorporate the cooked rice and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving the soup

Tomato soup with rice is served hot, topped with a little fresh chopped parsley. It is just as delicious cold, making it an excellent choice for hot summer days. You can also add some chili peppers for a touch of spice or a slice of toasted bread for added texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but choose a quality variant for better taste.

2. How can I vary the ingredients?
You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or squash, or replace the rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of tomatoes?
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radicals. They are also low in calories and contain essential vitamins.

Serving recommendations

This soup pairs excellently with a fresh green salad or a cheese tart. You can accompany the meal with a glass of mineral water or a fresh fruit cocktail to complete the culinary experience.

Personal note

This tomato soup recipe with rice and pureed vegetables is one of my favorites, not only for its taste but also for its simplicity. It is a recipe that brings back memories of summers spent in the garden, picking ripe tomatoes and fresh vegetables. I hope it inspires you and brings joy to your kitchen! Enjoy!