Looking for a delicious and healthy soup recipe? Look no further than 1 cup bean and rice soup! With just 154 calories per serving, this soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to keep you full and satisfied.

Bean and rice soup is also easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste preferences. Plus, it's an affordable meal option that can be made in bulk for meal prep or frozen for later use.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of bean and rice soup, share a basic recipe, give tips on how to enhance the flavor, and share different variations of this versatile soup.

Healthy benefits of Bean and Rice soup

Bean and rice soup is a nutritious and filling meal that offers a wealth of health benefits. It's packed with protein, which helps build muscle and repair tissue, and fiber, which promotes digestive health and can help lower cholesterol. Additionally, the combination of beans and rice provides a complete source of essential amino acids, making it a great plant-based protein source for vegetarians and vegans.

Bean and Rice Soup Recipe

To make a basic bean and rice soup, you'll need the following ingredients: - 1 cup brown rice - 1 can of your favorite beans (black, kidney, or pinto) - 4 cups of vegetable broth - 1 onion, chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 tsp of cumin - Salt and pepper to taste First, cook the rice according to instructions. In a separate pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the cumin and cook for another minute. Add the cooked rice, beans, and vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.

How to make Bean and Rice Soup taste better?

While the basic bean and rice soup recipe is delicious on its own, there are ways to enhance the flavor and make it even more satisfying. Consider adding diced tomatoes, chopped carrots and celery, or a can of corn to the soup. You could also add some hot sauce or chili powder for a spicy kick. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano or thyme, to give your soup some extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts of Bean and Rice Soup

A serving of 1 cup bean and rice soup contains the following: - 154 calories - 7g protein - 2g fat - 31g carbohydrates - 4g fiber - 3g sugar - 536mg sodium This soup is low in fat and calories, making it a great option for weight loss or weight maintenance. The high fiber content also makes it a filling and satisfying meal.

Different varieties of Bean and Rice Soup

Bean and rice soup can be customized to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Consider swapping brown rice for quinoa or farro for a different texture. You could also add some diced chicken or sausage for extra protein. If you're following a vegan or vegetarian diet, be sure to use vegetable broth and add some extra veggies, like kale or spinach.

Vegan Bean and Rice Soup Recipe

To make a vegan bean and rice soup, simply replace the chicken broth in the basic recipe with vegetable broth. You could also add some chopped veggies, like carrots and celery, for extra flavor and nutrition. Top with fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor.

Bean and Rice Soup for weight loss

Bean and rice soup is a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. It's low in calories and high in fiber, which can help control hunger and reduce calorie intake. Additionally, the protein in beans can help boost metabolism and promote muscle growth, which can aid in weight loss.

Spicy Bean and Rice Soup Recipe

To make a spicy bean and rice soup, you'll need: - 1 cup brown rice - 1 can of your favorite beans (black, kidney, or pinto) - 4 cups of vegetable broth - 1 onion, chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 tsp of cumin - 1-2 tbsp of hot sauce (depending on your spice preference) Follow the basic recipe instructions, but add the hot sauce to the soup as it simmers. You could also top the soup with some sliced jalapeños or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt to cool down the heat.

Bean and Rice Soup for meal prep

Bean and rice soup is a great meal prep option, as it can be made in bulk and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use. To make a large batch, simply double or triple the basic recipe and divide the soup into single serving containers. When ready to eat, simply heat the soup on the stove or in the microwave and enjoy!

Bean and Rice Soup for winter

Bean and rice soup is the perfect comfort food for a cold winter day. The warm and filling soup is sure to keep you satisfied and warm all day long. Serve with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.