Greek Lemon-Rice Soup, known as Avgolemono, is a comforting and classic dish that combines the vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh herbs with the heartiness of rice. This recipe from lovewithrecipes.com promises to deliver a delightful bowl of warmth in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, flavorful meal any time of year.
Overview
Name: Greek Lemon-Rice Soup
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Recipe Category: Fruit
Keywords: Greek, European, < 60 Mins, Stove Top
Servings: 4
Aggregated Rating: 5 stars (from 9 reviews)
Ingredients
This recipe for Greek Lemon-Rice Soup uses simple ingredients that come together harmoniously to create a dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors:
- 3 1/2 cups long-grain rice
- 1/4 cup minced garlic
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 – 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup chopped parsley
- 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or to taste)
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 67.3 per serving
- Fat: 1.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Cholesterol: 52.9mg
- Sodium: 19.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 11.3g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Protein: 2.6g
Instructions
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Prepare the Broth: Start by heating the chicken or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan until it comes to a boil. Stir in the long-grain rice and minced garlic.
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Simmer the Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer gently in the broth until it becomes tender. This typically takes about 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Prepare the Lemon-Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and fresh lemon juice until well combined. This mixture will add richness and a tangy note to the soup.
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Temper the Eggs: To prevent the eggs from curdling when added to the hot broth, it’s essential to temper them. Slowly pour a ladleful of the hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture while continuously whisking. This gradually raises the temperature of the eggs without cooking them too quickly.
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Incorporate into Soup: Once tempered, slowly pour the egg-lemon mixture back into the saucepan with the simmering rice and broth. Stir gently and continuously to ensure the eggs distribute evenly throughout the soup, creating a creamy texture.
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Add Fresh Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped parsley, salt, and white pepper to taste. These final seasonings bring out the brightness of the lemon and complement the savory notes of the broth and rice.
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Serve: Ladle the Greek Lemon-Rice Soup into individual bowls, ensuring each serving includes a generous amount of rice and flavorful broth. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
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Consistency: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences. Some prefer a more pronounced citrus flavor, while others enjoy a milder hint.
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Tempering Eggs: Take care when tempering the eggs to avoid curdling. The gradual addition of hot broth while whisking vigorously helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh parsley and quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best flavor profile. These ingredients are crucial in capturing the essence of traditional Greek cuisine.
Variations
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Add Vegetables: For a heartier version, incorporate diced carrots, celery, or spinach during the simmering process.
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Protein Boost: Include shredded cooked chicken or turkey for added protein, transforming the soup into a more substantial meal.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh dill or mint alongside parsley for a nuanced herbal blend that complements the lemony base.
Serving Suggestions
Greek Lemon-Rice Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of Greek salad. The light yet satisfying flavors make it ideal for lunch or dinner, whether served as a starter or as the main event.
Conclusion
With its tangy lemon infusion, comforting rice, and rich, creamy texture from the egg-lemon mixture, Greek Lemon-Rice Soup is a testament to the artistry of Mediterranean cooking. This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul with its timeless flavors and straightforward preparation. Perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike, it’s a dish that embodies the essence of Greek cuisine—a celebration of simplicity and freshness.
