Grandma's Tomato Soup With Rice: A Comforting Recipe

Hey guys! Are you ready for a bowl of heartwarming goodness? Today, we're diving into a classic: Grandma's Tomato Soup with Rice. This isn't just any soup; it's a hug in a bowl, a taste of nostalgia, and a dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to learn how to make this simple yet incredibly satisfying meal. I will guide you step by step, I promise that you can easily make it at home.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simplicity: This recipe uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. No need for fancy stuff! This recipe is very beginner friendly, you don't have to worry If you are not an expert in cooking. You can also add some twist that fits your liking.
• Comfort Food: Tomato soup and rice is the ultimate comfort food combination. It’s warm, filling, and soothes the soul. Its the perfect definition of comfort food for me and my family. I usually make this during cold days, or if I just wanted to remember my grandma.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Add different herbs, spices, or even some protein to make it your own. You can share this recipe to your friends and family, and I am sure they will love it.
• Budget-Friendly: This recipe is super economical, making it a great option for those looking to save a few bucks without sacrificing flavor. Cheap and easy to make, that is how I would describe this recipe.

Ingredients You'll Need

Let's gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup:

• Canned Tomatoes: A good quality canned tomato is the base of our soup. I prefer using crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture, but diced tomatoes work just as well. Crushed tomatoes is the best canned tomato for me, the texture is so smooth and the taste is very delicious. It is very easy to cook and you don't have to spend so much time.
• Rice: Long-grain rice is my go-to for this recipe, but any type of rice will work. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can use any rice you want, depending on your preference. I would also recommend to use the best rice you can find.
• Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth adds depth of flavor to the soup. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand. If you don't have any of those, you can also use beef broth. But I would recommend to use either chicken or vegetable broth.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building a flavorful base. I like using white onion, because it has a strong taste. For garlic, I usually add a lot to make the soup extra delicious.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the aromatics. You can also use coconut oil, or vegetable oil if you don't have olive oil. You can use any type of oil you want.
• Herbs and Spices: A simple combination of basil, oregano, salt, and pepper is all you need to season this soup perfectly. You can also add other herbs and spices if you like.
• Sugar: A pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can also use honey or maple syrup if you don't have any sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own comforting bowl of tomato soup with rice:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sautéing the aromatics will make the soup even more delicious.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the canned tomatoes and broth. Stir well to combine. Simmering the tomatoes and broth is very important to make it taste better. Make sure to not overcook it.
3. Season and Simmer: Add the basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Simmering the soup for a long time will make the soup taste better. The longer the better.
4. Add Rice: Stir in the rice and continue to simmer until the rice is cooked through, about 20 minutes. Make sure the rice is cooked through, because it will taste bad if its not.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking. You can also add some chili flakes if you like it spicy.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve it while its hot, because it will not taste as good when its cold.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Use Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better your soup will taste. So, invest in good quality canned tomatoes and broth.
• Don't Skip the Simmer: Simmering the soup for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful soup. The longer you simmer, the better.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender. For a thinner soup, add more broth.
• Add a Touch of Creaminess: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup. This will make the soup more delicious and satisfying.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Top your soup with croutons, grated cheese, or a swirl of pesto for added flavor and texture. This is the best part of making a soup, you can be as creative as you want.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. This is perfect for those who love spicy food.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: Stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture. This will make the soup more indulgent.
• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup for a deeper, more complex flavor. Roasting the tomatoes will make the soup taste even better.
• Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: Cut grilled cheese sandwiches into small squares and use them as croutons for a fun and delicious twist. This is a great way to use up leftover grilled cheese sandwiches.
• Tomato Soup with Meatballs: Add small meatballs to the soup for a heartier, more filling meal. You can use store-bought or homemade meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato soup with rice is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it a complete meal:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing! A grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of tomato soup.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This is a great way to soak up all the delicious soup.
• Salad: A simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting soup.
• Quesadillas: Cut quesadillas into triangles and serve them with the soup for a fun and flavorful meal.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

• Yes, you can! You’ll need about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Peel and chop them before adding them to the soup. You may need to adjust the cooking time to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down.

Can I freeze this soup?

• Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

• Yes, you can! Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, stir well, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this soup vegan?

• Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and ensure that any toppings or garnishes you use are also vegan.

Conclusion

There you have it – Grandma's Tomato Soup with Rice! This recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a nostalgic dish to remind you of home, this soup is the perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure deliciousness! Happy cooking, guys! I am very happy to share this recipe with you, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.