Description
A hearty and flavorful Spicy Sweet Potato, Vegetable and Rice Soup that combines tender vegetables, warming spices, and wholesome rice in a comforting broth. Perfect for a warming meal with a gentle kick, this vegan and gluten-free soup is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger root
- 2 sticks of celery, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- ½ red pepper, finely chopped
- 300g (10.5oz) sweet potato, chopped
- 1 handful of freshly chopped parsley or coriander
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon red chilli flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Liquids and Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1.5 litres (6.25 cups) vegetable stock
- ½ cup (90g) uncooked long grain rice
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Add the olive oil to a large saucepan over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, ginger, celery, and carrot to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add spices and sweet potato: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, red chilli flakes, and chopped sweet potato. Mix well to evenly coat the vegetables and sweet potato with the spices and tomato paste.
- Add liquids and bring to boil: Pour in the vegetable stock and balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer the soup gently for 45 minutes until the sweet potato is tender.
- Cook rice: Add the uncooked long grain rice to the simmering soup. Continue cooking uncovered over medium heat until the rice is fully cooked and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Season to taste: Taste the soup and season it with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
- Add fresh herbs: Stir in the freshly chopped parsley or coriander to add freshness and aroma just before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy this warming, flavorful meal.
Notes
- This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of diets.
- Adjust the amount of chilli flakes to control the spice level according to your taste.
- Use long grain rice for best texture; you can substitute with brown rice but increase the cooking time accordingly.
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it reheats well.
- For added protein, consider adding cooked beans or lentils during the simmering step.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
