Soup with rice and garlic

Garlic and Rice Soup – a simple yet flavorful soup. This recipe combines basic ingredients with fundamental cooking techniques to create a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days or a quick lunch. Garlic soup is an excellent choice for those who appreciate intense and healthy flavors.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of green garlic (about 100 g)
- 100 g rice (ideal for soups, such as short-grain rice)
- 2 L water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 egg yolks
- 5 tablespoons vegetable concentrate
- Salt and pepper to taste

A touch of history:
Garlic soup has often been considered a natural remedy, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its beneficial properties. Garlic, known for its multiple nutritional benefits, has been used since ancient times in various cultures to promote health. This simple "zuppa" recipe pays homage to these traditions, offering a comforting and nourishing soup.

Steps to prepare the soup:

1. Washing the rice: Start by washing the rice. Place it in a bowl and cover it with water. Rinse it 3 times, changing the water until it becomes clear. This step will remove excess starch, preventing the rice grains from sticking together during cooking.

2. Boiling the water: In a large pot, add the 2 liters of water and the vegetable concentrate. Place it on the heat and let it boil. Using vegetable concentrate will give the soup a rich and complex flavor, but you can also use homemade vegetable stock if available.

3. Preparing the garlic: Clean the green garlic and chop it finely. Green garlic has a milder and fresher flavor, ideal for this soup, but you can also use dried garlic, depending on your preference.

4. Sautéing the garlic: In a pan, melt the two tablespoons of butter along with the olive oil. Add the chopped garlic and sauté on low heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

5. Combining the ingredients: Once the water with the concentrates has boiled, add the sautéed garlic to the soup and then the washed rice. Gently stir, then taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.

6. Adding the yolks: Once the rice is ready, remove the pot from the heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the yolks with a tablespoon of olive oil. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of soup to the yolks, stirring constantly to temper them. Then, incorporate the yolk mixture into the soup, stirring continuously to achieve a creamy texture.

7. Serving: Serve the zuppa in deep plates, adding a slice of toasted bread to each serving. The toasted bread adds a pleasant contrast of textures and a delicious flavor. You can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a touch of freshness and color.

Practical tips:
- Egg yolks: Make sure the yolks are at room temperature to incorporate easily into the soup.
- Garlic: If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add more garlic or use dried garlic.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or basmati, but the cooking time will vary. You can also add diced vegetables, such as carrots or celery, for added nutrients and textures.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pre-cooked rice? You can use it, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as pre-cooked rice cooks faster.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can try adding fresh spinach or other greens, which will give the soup a fresh and vibrant touch.
- What are the nutritional benefits? This soup is rich in antioxidants from garlic and provides healthy carbohydrates from rice, making it an excellent choice for a light and nourishing lunch.

Culinary pairings:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crispy green salad or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal, adding a touch of elegance and refinement.

Dare to personalize your garlic soup with your favorite ingredients and enjoy every bite! This garlic and rice zuppa is not just a comforting dish but also an invitation to connect with culinary traditions that bring us together. Enjoy your meal!