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### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
2. **Add the Tomatoes and Broth:**
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. If you like your soup a bit sweeter to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, add a tablespoon of sugar. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. **Simmer:**
Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to fully cook. The soup should be fragrant and flavorful by this point.
4. **Add the Rice:**
Once the soup has simmered, add the cooked rice to the pot and stir it in. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through and absorb the soup’s flavors.
5. **Serve:**
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
### Tips for Customization:
– **Add protein:** For a heartier soup, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for extra protein.
– **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the soup.
– **Use fresh tomatoes:** If you have fresh tomatoes, chop them up and simmer them in the broth for a fresher flavor. You may need to blend them if you prefer a smoother texture.
– **Rice variations:** You can experiment with different types of rice, such as wild rice or even quinoa, for added texture and flavor.
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Comforting & Filling:** The combination of rice and vegetables creates a hearty, satisfying soup that can be enjoyed as a main course or side.
– **Quick & Easy:** With just a few basic ingredients, this soup comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
– **Customizable:** You can easily adjust this recipe based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly day or a light but filling dish, Tomato Rice Soup is the perfect choice. It’s a nutritious and flavorful way to enjoy the goodness of tomatoes and rice in one bowl!
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