Spicy rice noodle soup

Vegan Rice Noodle Soup: A Comforting Delight

When we think of a warm, comforting meal that embraces our soul, soup is an essential part of the culinary landscape. This vegan rice noodle soup recipe is not only a delicious option but also a perfect example of comfort food. Moreover, it is easy to prepare, and the ingredients are accessible to everyone. Let’s embark on this delightful cooking adventure together!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 medium red onion
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 100 g rice noodles
- ½ jar root vegetables for soup (celery, carrot, parsnip, parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed peppercorns (black, white, pink) to taste
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Approximately 1 liter of still water

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling the onion. Wash it well and chop it finely. The red onion is preferred in this recipe for its sweet and slightly spicy flavor, which will intensify during cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion
In a medium pot, add the two tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the oil over low heat and add the chopped onion. Let it sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly translucent. The olive oil will not only provide a pleasant taste but will also help extract the flavors from the onion.

3. Adding the root vegetables
Now it’s time to add the mix of root vegetables for soup. These vegetables not only add depth of flavor to the soup but also contribute to its texture. Mix well to incorporate the vegetables.

4. Boiling the soup
Pour approximately 1 liter of still water into the pot, season with salt and pepper to taste, and add the mustard seeds. The mustard will give the soup a slightly spicy note that will harmonize with the other ingredients. Let the soup boil for 10 minutes over medium heat, allowing the flavors to develop deeply.

5. Adding the noodles
After 10 minutes, add the rice noodles. They will cook quickly, so don’t leave them in the soup for too long. Boil everything for 15 minutes until the noodles become tender and perfectly integrate into the soup.

6. Finalizing the soup
Dilute the tomato paste with a little water before adding it to the pot. This step is important to avoid lumps. Pour the resulting sauce into the hot soup and let it simmer for a few minutes. The tomato paste will provide a vibrant color and delicious flavor, perfectly complementing the soup.

7. Serving
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before turning off the heat. Let the soup sit covered for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then, serve it warm, perhaps alongside a slice of whole-grain bread or crispy croutons.

Serving suggestions
This vegan rice noodle soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a mixed vegetable salad. You can also drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil on top for extra flavor.

Tips and variations
If you want to customize your soup, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and color. You can also substitute the rice noodles with other types of pasta, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits
This soup is not only delicious but also healthy. The root vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, while the rice noodles are a good source of carbohydrates, being easy to digest. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for those following a vegan or fasting diet.

Frequently asked questions
- Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

- Can I use other types of oil?
Of course! You can use sunflower or coconut oil, but olive oil adds a distinct flavor.

- What drinks pair well with this soup?
A green tea or a dry white wine will perfectly complement the soup's flavors. Additionally, a glass of lemon-infused water will add a refreshing touch.

Vegan rice noodle soup is a simple, quick, and tasty recipe that can quickly become your favorite on chilly evenings. Don’t hesitate to try it and share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!