Squid and Rice Soup

Introduction

Squid and Rice Soup is a delicious and hearty meal that can be enjoyed anytime. This easy-to-make soup combines the flavors of squid, onion, garlic, and herbs with the comforting texture of cooked rice. It is a great way to add variety to your dinner table and can be easily adapted to suit your tastes. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. 

Ease of preparation

Squid and Rice Soup is surprisingly easy to make. The ingredients are simple, and the preparation time is minimal. All you need to do is sauté the squid, onion, and garlic in olive oil, add the broth, water, and rice, and let it simmer until the rice is cooked. Once the rice is cooked, add the herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper, and serve with fresh parsley. 

Nutritional information

Squid and Rice Soup is a nutritious and filling meal. It is low in calories and fat and a good protein, vitamin, and mineral source. One serving of Squid and Rice Soup provides approximately 200 calories, 8 grams of fat, 30 grams of protein, 5 grams of fibre, and 20% of your daily recommended value of iron.

Ingredients

– 1/2 pound squid, cleaned and cut into rings

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 2 cups water

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1/2 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper, to taste

– 1 bay leaf

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation method

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the squid, onion, garlic, and sauté for a few minutes until the squid is cooked.

Next, add the chicken broth, water, and rice to the pot and boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the bay leaf and let the soup simmer for 5 minutes.

Remove the bay leaf and serve the soup with fresh parsley as a garnish.

Cooking tips

When cooking the squid, ensure it is cooked through before adding the other ingredients. The squid will become tough and chewy if it is not cooked through. 

Add a few tablespoons of white wine or lemon juice to the soup for extra flavour.

Flavour/Taste

Squid and Rice Soup has a savoury flavour with a hint of sweetness from the onion and garlic. The herbs and paprika add a subtle depth of flavour, while the salt and pepper bring out all the flavours of the soup.

Best dishes paired with

Squid and Rice Soup can be served with a variety of side dishes. Try pairing it with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. It can also be served with various sauces, such as pesto or garlic aioli.

Origin of dish and history

Squid and Rice Soup is believed to have originated in Spain or Portugal, where it is a popular dish. It has since spread worldwide and is now enjoyed in many different countries.

Popular alternatives

If you don’t have squid on hand, you can substitute shrimp or other types of seafood. You can also use different types of rice, such as basmati or brown rice. For a vegetarian version, try using tofu or mushrooms instead of squid.