Chicory & Rice Soup with Lemon-Chili Relish

Brighten Your Day with Chicory Rice Soup: A Springtime Delight

Looking for a light, flavorful soup that’s perfect for springtime? Our Chicory Rice Soup is just the ticket! This isn’t your average soup; it’s a vibrant blend of slightly bitter chicory, comforting rice, and a zesty kick from preserved lemons. It’s surprisingly easy to make and comes together in under 35 minutes, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a satisfying starter.

What makes this soup special?

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. We use readily available ingredients and focus on letting their natural flavors shine. The chicory (specifically curly endive, also known as frisée) adds a lovely texture and a subtle bitterness that’s beautifully balanced by the rice and brightened by the preserved lemons. Garlic scapes contribute a mild garlic flavor that’s perfect for spring. A drizzle of chili oil adds a touch of heat and complexity.

A Flavor Profile for Spring

This soup is all about fresh, vibrant flavors. The slight bitterness of the chicory is a wonderful counterpoint to the creamy rice. Preserved lemons offer a unique, salty, and tangy flavor that elevates the entire dish. And the chili oil? It’s the perfect finishing touch, adding a subtle warmth that lingers on the palate.

Tips for Success:

• Rice Choice: Leftover rice works wonderfully in this soup, minimizing waste and saving you time. Any type of rice will do, but a medium-grain rice like Arborio will create a slightly creamier texture.
• Garlic Scapes: If you can’t find garlic scapes, you can substitute with the green parts of scallions or a clove of minced garlic.
• Preserved Lemons: While preserved lemons are ideal, you can use fresh lemon juice and zest as a substitute. Start with the juice of 1 lemon and the zest of 1/2 lemon, and adjust to taste.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili oil to your liking. Start with a small amount and add more until you reach your desired level of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is chicory? Chicory is a leafy vegetable with a slightly bitter flavor. Curly endive (frisée) is a common variety used in salads and soups.
• Can I make this soup ahead of time? While best served immediately, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
• Is this soup vegetarian/vegan? Yes, this soup is naturally vegetarian and vegan.
• Can I add protein to this soup? Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked chickpeas, white beans, or shredded chicken for a more substantial meal.
• What if I don’t like bitter flavors? If you’re sensitive to bitterness, you can blanch the chicory for a minute or two before adding it to the soup. This will help to reduce its bitterness.

This Chicory Rice Soup is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of spring. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire!