Pepper Soup
This is a popular delicacy that can be found in practically every section of the country. It frequently includes a variety of meats such as beef, chicken, mutton, or fresh fish. It's most commonly found in bars, where it's served with beer. Because of the natural spices used in its preparation, it is a highly healthful soup. On the tongue, a smidgeon of pepper soup creates a distinctive taste that will keep you coming back for more. It's spicy, tasty, and has a pleasant scent.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef, 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided, Salt and freshly ground black pepper1 small yellow onion chopped (1 cup), 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (a little over 1/2 of a medium), 1 cup chopped green bell pepper, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, 1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium beef broth, 2 1/2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish, 1/2 tsp dried basil*, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1 cup uncooked long grain white or brown rice (I love both options), Cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot heat 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat, once hot add beef to pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally while breaking up beef, until browned. Drain beef and pour onto a plate lined with paper towels, set aside.
- Heat remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil in pot then add onions, red bell pepper, green bell pepper and saute 3 minutes, then add garlic and saute 30 seconds longer.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth and add parsley, basil, oregano and cooked beef, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring just to a light boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, 30 minutes.
- While soup simmers, prepare rice according to directions listed on package, then once soup is done simmering stir in desired amount of cooked rice into soup.
