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There’s something incredibly special about coming home to the comforting aroma of Tomato Rice Soup with Beef wafting through the kitchen. This dish found its way into my heart during chilly autumn afternoons spent huddled around the stove with my family. My grandmother would stir her bubbling pot, the rich scents of simmering beef and tangy tomatoes blending perfectly with garlic and herbs, wrapping us in a warm embrace. Every spoonful was a delightful dance of flavors, each ingredient playing its part in creating one unforgettable memory.
Now, as I share this recipe with all of you, I can’t help but feel the same joy that comes from sharing a comforting meal. The bright red tomatoes shine like little jewels in the bowl, and the tender chunks of beef feel like a big hug. Trust me, once you experience this cozy soup, you’ll understand why it holds such a dear place in my heart—and why it will in yours, too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills—great for beginner cooks!
- Quick One-Pot Meal: Most of the cooking happens in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
- Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of beef, vegetables, and herbs creates a soulful flavor that warms your heart.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a nourishing choice for cozy dinners.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for sharing with family and friends or serving at gatherings—everyone will ask for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat: Tender pieces of beef infuse the soup with rich flavor. Choose higher-quality cuts for better results!
- 1 cup long-grain rice: Offers a lovely chewy texture that complements the soup. Rinse it before adding to remove excess starch.
- 4 cups beef broth: A flavorful base! Use homemade or low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds sweetness and acidity to balance the beef. Look for those packed in juice for extra flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory depth. Use yellow or sweet onion for a milder taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with warmth and aroma that’s simply irresistible.
- 2 carrots, diced: Sweet crunch that brightens the dish. Feel free to add in more veggies if you like!
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds a fresh crunch. This is a great veggie to sneak in extra nutrients!
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic herb that brings an earthy warmth to the soup.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Adds a hint of sweetness and aromatics. If you have fresh, even better!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
- Olive oil: For sautéing veggies and adding a little richness to the dish.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. As they sizzle, the sweet aroma fills your kitchen—such a joyful start! Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Brown the Beef
Push the veggies to the side of the pot and add the beef stew meat. Let it brown on all sides for about 4–5 minutes. The sizzling sound and rich aroma of the beef caramelizing is just heavenly.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Once the beef is brown, stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and take a moment to inhale the intoxicating scents that now fill your kitchen.
4. Simmer for Tenderness
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. Imagine the steam rising and the rich flavors developing!
5. Add the Rice
Stir in the long-grain rice and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and perfectly cooked through. The rice soaks up all those wonderful flavors, creating an even heartier soup.
6. Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if you fancy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Brown the beef well: Don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth to the flavor.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor.
- Let it rest: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Use a good-quality broth: The broth can make or break your soup, so quality matters!
Flavor Variations
- Herb swaps: Try using thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie twists: Add in bell peppers, peas, or corn for seasonal freshness.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your soup a gentle kick!
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Tomato Rice Soup with Beef is perfect on its own, but why not enhance your meal? A slice of crusty bread or warm, buttery cornbread pairs perfectly for dipping. You can also top it with freshly grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream. If you’re in the mood, a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon will complement the flavors beautifully. For drinks, a nice glass of red wine or a refreshing sparkling water is a delightful choice!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can easily make this soup ahead of time! Prepare it and let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When ready, simply reheat and enjoy!
Leftovers
Never underestimate the power of leftovers! You can turn today’s soup into a delicious casserole by adding some grated cheese and baking it until golden brown. Alternatively, use it to fill burritos or serve over baked potatoes for a whole new meal experience!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this delightful soup! Allow it to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Tomato Rice Soup is either in a microwave-safe bowl or over medium heat in a skillet. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to bring back its wonderful consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Absolutely! Just brown the ground beef until no longer pink and follow the recipe from there.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and veggies first, then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use gluten-free beef broth and skip the optional bread or crackers!
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand! Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach are all great additions.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this cozy culinary adventure, I hope you’ve been inspired to whisk together your own Tomato Rice Soup with Beef. This not only fills your belly but also nourishes your soul on those chilly evenings. One sniff and it’s pure magic—every bite reminds you of home, warmth, and love. So, gather your ingredients, turn on some music, and let’s get cooking! Until next time, keep vibing in the kitchen and creating delicious memories. Happy cooking, friends!
Warm wishes,
Chef Emily from vibingRecipes.com
Tomato Rice Soup with Beef
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Push the veggies to the side of the pot and add the beef stew meat. Let it brown on all sides for about 4–5 minutes.
- Once the beef is brown, stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
- Stir in the long-grain rice and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and perfectly cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if you fancy!