Creamy Shrimp and Rice Soup
Ingredients
- For the Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Soup:
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup long-grain rice
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomato and red bell pepper (if using). Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Season the Base:
- Add the paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the Broth and Rice:
- Pour in the seafood or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cover the pot. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Incorporate the Cream and Shrimp:
- Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream. Let the soup come back to a gentle simmer.
- Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Spinach and Lime:
- Stir in the chopped spinach (if using) and lime juice. Allow the spinach to wilt in the hot soup.
- Final Adjustments:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Tips and Variations
- Seafood Variations: You can add other seafood like scallops or fish chunks to enhance the seafood flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or peas.
- Coconut Milk vs. Cream: For a lighter option, use light coconut milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Herb Options: Fresh basil or parsley can be used as an alternative to cilantro for garnish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
This creamy shrimp and rice soup is perfect for a cozy meal, offering a delightful combination of creamy textures, tender shrimp, and comforting rice. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!