Green Pepper Soup with rice is a comforting, aromatic dish, full of warmth and flavor. This dish is a staple in many African households, especially in West Africa, and has earned its reputation for its rich, spicy, and herby taste. The combination of vibrant green peppers, aromatic spices, and the soothing rice creates a perfect balance of heat and depth. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a chilly day or a savory dish to share with family and friends, this recipe has got you covered. It’s easy to make, with a straightforward method that doesn’t skimp on flavor, and it comes together in no time, offering a satisfying blend of textures from the tender meat (if added) to the comforting rice.
Green Pepper Soup With Rice Recipe
This Green Pepper Soup with Rice recipe has been designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. You’ll be amazed by how simple ingredients can come together to make a hearty, flavorful dish that leaves you wanting more.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 medium green bell peppers – These will be the stars of the show, providing a fresh, slightly bitter flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the soup.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the soup.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – This brings a sweet and savory note to the dish that complements the peppers.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – A must for infusing the soup with depth and flavor.
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger – Adds a slight zing and a touch of warmth, balancing the sweetness of the peppers.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – This brings an earthy, slightly smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – For a bit of color and a mild smoky flavor that layers in the background.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – The base of the soup, offering savory depth and moisture for the ingredients to cook in.
- 1 cup rice (preferably long grain or basmati) – Rice helps to absorb the savory broth and provides texture that complements the soup’s richness.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, of course! These are the essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
- Optional protein (chicken, beef, or fish) – If you’re adding protein, you can cook your choice of meat or fish in the broth to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish – A burst of freshness at the end that brightens up the dish.
- Lime or lemon wedges – A little squeeze at the end adds an extra layer of acidity that balances the spices.
Cooking Instructions
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Prep The Vegetables
- Wash and chop the green peppers, onions, and garlic. For an added layer of flavor, you can even roast the peppers before adding them to the soup to bring out their sweetness.
- If using fresh ginger, grate it finely, so it blends easily into the soup base.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
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Add The Peppers And Spices
- Add the chopped green peppers to the pot, followed by the cumin and paprika. Stir everything together, letting the spices bloom in the heat for about 2 minutes. This step enhances the flavor profile of the dish by releasing the essential oils in the spices.
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Pour In The Broth
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful base.
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Cook The Rice
- While the soup is simmering, cook the rice separately. In a different pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, and cook according to the instructions on the package. Once done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
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Optional Protein
- If you’re adding protein, now is the time to add it to the broth. If you’re using chicken, beef, or fish, ensure it’s cooked through and tender by letting it simmer in the broth for 10-15 minutes.
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Combine And Adjust Seasonings
- Once the soup has simmered to your liking, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For a final touch, squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice into the soup for acidity.
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Serve
- To serve, place a generous scoop of rice in each bowl and ladle the hot green pepper soup over the rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
- Green Bell Peppers: Often overlooked, green bell peppers are a fantastic base for soups, offering a subtle bitterness that pairs beautifully with savory and spicy notes. They also pack a punch in terms of vitamin C, making this dish a great immune booster.
- Rice: In this dish, rice doesn’t just act as a filler. It absorbs the rich broth and balances out the spice and heat. Depending on the type of rice you choose, you can adjust the texture of the dish. Basmati rice, for example, adds a slightly floral aroma that complements the green peppers perfectly.
- Ginger and Garlic: Both these ingredients are powerhouses in cooking, and together they form the foundation of many flavorful dishes. Ginger adds a touch of warmth, while garlic delivers a savory depth that’s hard to beat.
Expert Tips
- Roast the Peppers: If you want to bring out the natural sweetness of the green peppers, try roasting them before adding them to the soup. You can do this by placing the peppers under a broiler for a few minutes until the skins blacken and then peeling off the charred skin. This will elevate the flavor.
- Let the Soup Simmer: The longer the soup simmers, the deeper and richer the flavors become. If you have the time, allow the soup to cook for at least 30 minutes to really let the spices and vegetables meld together.
- Make It Spicy: If you like your pepper soup with a bit of a kick, you can add fresh chili peppers or cayenne pepper to the mix. Adjust it to your heat tolerance!
- Use Homemade Broth: If you’re making the soup as a truly special dish, homemade chicken or vegetable broth will take it to the next level in terms of flavor. Store-bought versions are fine, but fresh broth adds an undeniable depth.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Green Pepper Soup: For a lighter version, leave out the protein and use only vegetables. You can also add mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to bulk up the soup.
- Spicy Version: Add Scotch bonnet peppers or habaneros to bring a fiery element to the soup. These peppers will infuse the broth with an intense heat that’s perfect for spice lovers.
- Use of Coconut Milk: For a creamy and slightly sweet variation, you can add a cup of coconut milk to the soup. This will create a richer, creamier texture and a subtle tropical undertone.
- Different Proteins: Instead of chicken or beef, try using fish (like tilapia or cod) for a lighter version. Fish adds a delicate flavor to the soup and pairs well with the fresh peppers.
Final Words
Green Pepper Soup with rice is the kind of dish that offers comfort and flavor in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. The warm, aromatic broth combined with the freshness of green peppers and the richness of rice makes for a satisfying meal that will leave everyone feeling full and content.