Tomato And Rice Soup
A hearty tomato and rice soup with tender beef, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the beef in 1 tablespoon of shortening.
- Add water, stewed tomatoes, pepper, and salt to the beef.
- Bring the mixture to a brisk boil.
- Add rice and bring to a boil again.
- Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can brown the beef stew on all sides before adding the other ingredients. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked rice to reduce the cooking time. Feel free to substitute the beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Adding herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the taste. This recipe is a great base for variations, similar to American recipes you may enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor. This hearty dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a different twist, you could enjoy it alongside Aunt Betty's Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner experience. This soup is perfect for cold days or as a filling lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Rice Soup contains roughly 1203 calories, with 6g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2260mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 45-50 minutes to cook, so you may need to adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure the rice is tender.
What can I add to make this soup more flavorful?
To boost the flavor of your soup, consider adding garlic, onions, or celery when browning the beef. You can also stir in some fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can add depth to the flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the beef with a plant-based protein such as lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor, making it a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).