Tomato cream soup

Creamy Tomato Soup with Rice – A Healthy Delight for Everyone

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

I invite you to discover a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for warm summer days or for moments when you want a light and comforting meal. Creamy tomato soup with rice is not just a tasty recipe, but also a wonderful way to use ripe tomatoes and fresh vegetables, transforming them into a dish full of vitamins and flavors. This soup is not only an excellent source of nutrients but also a dish that reminds us of the joy of cooking at home, with fresh and natural ingredients.

The History of Creamy Soups

Creamy tomato soup has a long and fascinating history, being a cherished dish in many cultures. It enjoys popularity due to its simplicity of preparation and the versatility of ingredients, which can be adapted to everyone’s tastes. In different variations, the soup can be enriched with herbs, spices, or even cheese, making it an ideal dish for all seasons.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 large potato
- 1 small celery
- 1 parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 kg well-ripened tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 liters of water
- 2 tablespoons of rice (preferably long-grain)
- Salt, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Details about Ingredients

Tomatoes: Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes, as their flavor will make a difference in the soup. Garden tomatoes are highly recommended, but you can also use high-quality store-bought tomatoes.

Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve the richest flavor. Sweet carrots, crunchy celery, and aromatic parsnips combine perfectly to create a delicious base.

Rice: Rice is optional, but it adds a pleasant texture and extra substance to the soup. Make sure to rinse it well before use to remove the starch.

Preparing the Creamy Tomato Soup

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and chopping the onion, carrots, potato, celery, parsnip, and red bell pepper into small pieces. This will help with even and quick boiling.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Place all the chopped vegetables in a large pot with 3 liters of water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until they become soft. It is important not to overcook them, as you want to retain the fresh flavor.

3. Preparing the tomatoes: Meanwhile, wash the tomatoes well and cut them in halves or quarters. Use a tomato separator attached to the meat grinder to obtain a fine tomato juice, ideal for the soup.

4. Straining the soup: After the vegetables have boiled, strain the soup to obtain a clear liquid. Keep the onion and bell pepper, but you can remove the rest of the vegetables if you prefer a smoother soup.

5. Creating the creamy soup: Add the strained vegetables (onion and bell pepper) into a blender and mix until they become a fine paste. Then, combine the obtained tomato juice with the strained soup and pureed vegetables in a large pot.

6. Final boiling: Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the rinsed rice and let it boil until the rice is cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

7. Seasoning: Finally, add salt to taste and the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well and remove from heat.

8. Finalizing the dish: Add the chopped parsley just before serving for an extra touch of freshness. Let the soup cool slightly before serving it in bowls.

Serving and Suggestions

Creamy tomato soup with rice can be served plain or with crunchy croutons, which add a pleasant texture. If you want to add a touch of refinement, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or toasted pumpkin seeds on top. Additionally, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil at the end can enhance the flavor.

This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or a fresh green salad. It is a versatile dish that can be combined with a variety of beverages, from a dry white wine to a chilled herbal tea, for a perfect summer dinner.

Nutritional Benefits

This creamy tomato soup is not only delicious but also very healthy. Tomatoes are full of antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and the vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients. A serving of soup provides a good amount of vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch or a delicious dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but choose the ones without additives to preserve the natural taste.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of chili pepper or a few drops of sriracha sauce during preparation for a spicy note.

3. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

4. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini, peas, or even spinach to vary the flavor and texture of the soup.

I encourage you to try this simple and tasty recipe for creamy tomato soup with rice. Remember that cooking is an art, and every recipe can be adapted to your personal taste. Enjoy your meal!