This Hearty Vegetable and Rice Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish, perfect for any meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this soup is both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Broth:
- 2 carrots
- 3 stalks of celery
- 1/2 clove of garlic
- 2 leeks
- 1 onion
- Clove (to taste)
- Parsley (to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- Thyme (to taste)
- Water (enough to fill the pot)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black peppercorns (to taste)
For the Soup:
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup rice, rinsed
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 fennel bulb, chopped
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Additional celery, chopped (to taste)
Directions:
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, combine the 2 carrots, 3 stalks of celery, 1/2 clove of garlic, 2 leeks, 1 onion, clove, parsley, 2 bay leaves, and thyme.
- Fill the pot with water and cover with a lid. Bring to a boil.
- Add salt and black peppercorns to taste.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Strain the broth through a sieve to remove the vegetables and herbs. You should have about 950 ml of broth.
- Prepare the Soup:
- In a separate pot, add the diced potatoes and pour in the vegetable broth. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir.
- Add the chopped bell peppers. Stir and cook over low heat with the lid on.
- Roast the Fennel:
- In a frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped fennel bulb and fry until golden brown.
- Add the diced carrot and chopped red onion to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
- Combine and Cook:
- Add the roasted fennel mixture to the pot of soup.
- Stir the soup to combine the vegetables.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add additional chopped celery if desired.
- Let the soup cook for a few more minutes until all the flavors are well blended.
- Serve:
- Once the soup is ready, remove from heat.
- Serve hot and enjoy the fragrant and tasty soup.
- Bon appétit!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- You can add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more variety.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Rice: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
- Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats to the dish.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan.
- Gluten-Free: All ingredients are gluten-free.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Nutritious: Packed with a variety of vegetables and herbs.
- Flavorful: The homemade broth and roasted vegetables add depth of flavor.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Vegetable and Rice Soup is a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Its rich flavor and nutritious ingredients make it a satisfying choice for any time of the year. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delicious taste of this homemade soup. Bon appétit!