Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory Soup Rice is a heartwarming and versatile dish that’s perfect for cozy weeknights or family gatherings. This comforting rice dish combines long-grain rice with a rich vegetable broth, sautéed sweet onions, and aromatic garlic. You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables, making each bowl a new experience. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, this savory rice will keep you coming back for more.

Savory Soup Rice Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 large yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: 1 cup diced carrots
Optional: 2 cups fresh spinach

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Add the Carrots (Optional): If using, stir in the diced carrots and sauté for an additional 3 minutes.
Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain rice to the pot and stir it well to combine. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes to bring out the flavor.
Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Simmer the Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Add the Spinach (Optional): Remove the pot from the heat, add the fresh spinach (if using), and let it wilt for about 2 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to mix everything together.
Serve: Serve the savory soup rice immediately, garnished with extra spinach or herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or zucchini for more flavor and texture.
Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken, tofu, or beans.
Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different spices like turmeric, thyme, or rosemary to suit your taste preferences.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to bring back its original texture.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! You can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook—approximately 40-45 minutes, depending on the variety.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use vegetable broth and skip the optional dairy additions.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It makes for a great meal prep option!

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the rice.

How do I adjust the seasoning?

You can adjust the salt and pepper to taste. You can also add additional spices or herbs like paprika, cumin, or bay leaves for extra depth.

Conclusion

Savory Soup Rice is a simple, comforting, and flavorful dish that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. With its easy-to-follow steps and customizable ingredients, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this recipe offers both taste and versatility, making it an excellent addition to your meal rotation.