- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
- Add the diced bell peppers and garlic to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato sauce into the pot. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add the beef or chicken broth to the pot, stirring well to combine all the ingredients.
Season the Soup:
- Stir in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Return the browned ground beef to the pot, mixing it in with the vegetables and broth.
Cook the Rice:
- Add the uncooked rice to the pot, stirring to distribute it evenly throughout the soup.
- Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
Serve the Soup:
- Once the rice is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Storage:
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Hearty stuffed pepper soup is a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers in a simpler, more convenient form. This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients and is incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner.
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