Vegetable soup with rice

Vegetable soup with rice is a classic, comforting, and healthy dish, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need an energy boost. This soup recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the vegetables and rice, making it an excellent choice for the whole family. Remember, in addition to its flavor, vegetable soup brings a sense of warmth and comfort, reminiscent of Sunday family meals.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1 bag of mixed frozen vegetables (approximately 400g)
- 1 white onion
- 1 red onion
- 3 tablespoons of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes (approximately 400g)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of salt (or to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 25g of butter
- 1 egg
- 200ml of sweet milk
- Thyme, dill, fresh parsley, basil (to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons of magic borscht or ½ teaspoon of lemon salt

Recipe Origin:
Vegetable soup with rice has deep roots in culinary traditions, prepared in various forms around the world. This simple and nourishing recipe has evolved over time, depending on available ingredients and local preferences. Whether you’re making it to feed a family or to treat yourself, vegetable soup with rice is a versatile choice.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
Thawing the vegetables is the first step. Remove the bag of frozen vegetables and place them in a colander. Rinse them under cold running water to remove any impurities and revitalize their flavor.

2. Chopping the Onions:
Wash the white and red onions, then drain them well. Chop them finely so they brown evenly and enhance the soup's aroma.

3. Sautéing the Onions:
In a deep pot, add the olive oil and the butter. Heat over medium heat and add the chopped onions. Sauté until the onions become soft and slightly yellow, about 5-7 minutes. This is when the flavors will start to develop.

4. Adding the Vegetables:
Add the thawed vegetables to the pot over the onions. Let them sauté for 1-2 minutes to intensify the flavor.

5. Boiling the Soup:
Pour in 2 liters of warm water and bring to a boil over medium heat for 20-30 minutes. During this time, the flavors will combine, turning the soup into a delicacy.

6. Preparing the Rice:
Choose a quality rice, free of impurities. Rinse it in 2-3 waters to remove excess starch and let it soak in clean water, just enough to cover it.

7. Preparing the Tomatoes:
In a small bowl, chop the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Mix them with a little cold water, sugar, and your favorite herbs. This will add a sweet and sour note to the soup.

8. Finalizing the Soup:
After the soup has boiled for 20-30 minutes, add the rice and let it cook together for 10 minutes. Then, add the tomatoes and magic borscht or lemon salt, allowing it to simmer for another 10 minutes.

9. Tempering the Soup:
In a bowl, crack the egg and separate the white from the yolk. Whisk the yolk with a spoonful of cold water, then add the sweet milk. Temper the soup by gradually pouring the hot broth over the egg and milk mixture, mixing well.

10. Resting the Soup:
Add the egg and milk mixture to the pot, stirring well. Cover and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step is essential to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving and Suggestions:
Vegetable soup with rice is served hot, and for an extra touch of flavor, you can add a dollop of sweet cream on top. A slice of fresh bread or a crunchy baguette is perfect to accompany this delicious meal.

Practical Tips:
- Vegetable Variations: If you have fresh vegetables available, you can use them instead of frozen ones. This will bring a crunchier texture and a more intense flavor.
- Seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices like turmeric, coriander, or curry to give the soup a different taste.
- Soup Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more rice or a larger quantity of vegetables.
- Drink Pairing: This soup pairs well with a dry white wine or green tea, which can aid digestion.

Nutritional Values:
Vegetable soup with rice is a healthy option, rich in vitamins and minerals. Each serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. It is an excellent source of fiber from the vegetables and rice, contributing to digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I add meat? If you want a meat version, you can add chicken or beef at the beginning of the cooking process, allowing it to boil until tender.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, vegetable soup with rice can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezing container.

Vegetable soup with rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that brings together fresh flavors and ingredients. Enjoy every spoonful and cherish the moments spent around the table with loved ones!