Just because it's early April and spring is definitely here does not mean we are not periodically hit with a chilly day or three. When that happens, soup - especially soup with a splash of bright color - can be just what you need to make things cozy again. This turkey (or chicken) soup is packed with high fiber brown rice and a veritable cornucopia of vegetables in an array of colors. Not only is it comforting and warming, it's just a pretty soup that is sure to make you smile when it's in your bowl and especially when it's in you!
If you have other rice you'd like to use, feel free. Most kinds will still work with the 15 minute cycle in the Instant Pot, but if you need to tweak, feel free. That's why you check the rice before adding carrots and spinach. If it's not ready, you can always turn the sauté setting back on and finish the rice (stirring and checking often) for the 5-10 minutes that might be necessary.
I like to serve this soup with a nice sandwich for dipping. My favorite soup dipping sandwich is a good grilled cheese with solid bread and a sharp cheddar, but choose whatever works for you. And again, however you serve it, enjoy!
Cozy Turkey & Rice Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 teaspoons Trader Joe's Aglio Olio Seasoning Blend or similar Italian style blend
- 2 cups chopped, cooked turkey (chicken also works)
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups turkey or chicken stock
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 cup coarsely shredded carrot
- Salt & pepper, to taste
In the pot of your Instant Pot, heat the olive oil with the Sauté setting. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes until beginning to appear translucent. Add the garlic and sauté an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are fully softened and the garlic is lightly browned and fragrant. Add the seasoning and stir to combine.
Add the turkey, tomatoes, stock, and brown rice. Stir well and set the the Instant Pot to cook for 15 minutes on high. Lock the lid in place and start the cycle. When the cycle ends, allow the pot to naturally release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Stir the soup, check the rice to make sure it is cooked, and add the carrots and spinach. Stir again, taste, and adjust seasonings as needed. When the carrots are lightly soft and the spinach is fully wilted, your soup is ready to serve!
- Yields: 6-8 servings
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes