Name: Hearty Tomato Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 6 ounces tomato paste; 15 ounces crushed tomatoes; 6 cups beef broth; 0.75 cup long grain white rice, rinsed; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 bay leaf; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; Additional parsley for garnish

Looking for a soul-soothing, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying? This Hearty Tomato Rice Soup is your answer. Loaded with tender beef, savory tomato broth, and soft white rice, it’s a full-flavored one-pot wonder perfect for easy dinner nights, quick lunch ideas, or cozy cold-weather comfort food. Whether you’re after a nourishing homemade meal or meal-prep friendly soup, this easy recipe fits into your collection of healthy snacks and dinner ideas effortlessly.

Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of Hearty Tomato Rice Soup after a long day. The rich aroma fills the air, enticing your senses, and as you take your first spoonful, the comforting flavors wrap around you like a warm blanket. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also provides warmth and satisfaction, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

This simple yet exquisite soup showcases the magic of combining basic ingredients into something extraordinary. With the tender beef and the perfect mix of spices, every bite ensures you feel nourished and happy. Plus, it’s incredibly flexible—ideal for customizing with your favorite additions or enjoying just as it is!

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Tomato Rice Soup

Flavor-Packed: The deep, savory flavors of the beef and tomatoes create a soup that’s truly unforgettable.
Easy One-Pot Recipe: This soup can be made in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Comforting and Hearty: It’s the perfect dish for cold days when you need something warm and filling.
Meal Prep Friendly: This soup keeps well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
Customizable: Adjust to your tastes with vegetables or different spices.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin cooking your Hearty Tomato Rice Soup, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools and ingredients. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, allowing you to work efficiently. Gather the following tools:

A large Dutch oven or soup pot to accommodate all the ingredients.
A sharp knife for chopping the vegetables and beef.
A cutting board to keep your workspace tidy.
A measuring cup and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements.
A stirring spoon to mix your ingredients.

Prepare all your ingredients beforehand: chop the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the beef into bite-sized pieces. This mise en place approach will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Also, don’t forget to rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps remove excess starch for perfectly cooked rice.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
6 ounces tomato paste
15 ounces crushed tomatoes
6 cups beef broth
0.75 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Additional parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches to ensure even browning. Sear the meat on all sides until it develops a rich brown crust, which enhances the soup’s flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Lower the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the same pot. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes or until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Afterward, add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds a strong flavor base for your soup.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomato Base

Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly; this intensifies the tomato flavor. Then, mix in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture until well combined, ensuring the spices coat the onion and garlic mixture evenly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, followed by the Worcestershire sauce and the bay leaf. Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Rice

After the beef has tenderized, add the rinsed long-grain white rice to the pot. Stir briefly and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked through and fluffy. Keep an eye on it to ensure the rice does not stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the rice is tender, carefully remove the bay leaf from the soup. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, adjusting seasoning as needed—perhaps add a touch more salt or pepper for an extra flavor boost. Allow the soup to rest for about 10 minutes to enhance its flavors and help it cool slightly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

For the final touch, ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with additional parsley if desired. Pair it with warm crusty bread or a fresh salad to create a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Variations

Protein: Substitute the beef with chicken for a lighter option or make it vegetarian by using chickpeas or lentils.
Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning or cumin for a varied taste.

Cooking Notes

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine with the beef broth.
This soup freezes well, so make a big batch and store it in airtight containers for quick meals later.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a slice of toasted bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
A side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Tips

Adjust the thickness of the soup by varying the amount of broth or rice based on your preference.
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream right before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 25 grams
Sodium: 850 milligrams

FAQs

Can I make the Hearty Tomato Rice Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can sauté the onions and beef in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

How long can I store this soup in the fridge?

Hearty Tomato Rice Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze the soup for later?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

Conclusion

The Hearty Tomato Rice Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors, comforting warmth, and nourishing ingredients, it truly is a heartwarming dish that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for your family or sharing it with friends, this soup will surely impress everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to try out the variations and make it your own! We’d love to hear your thoughts or your own tweaks in the comments below. Enjoy the warmth and love that comes from cooking and sharing delicious food!