Are you looking for a comforting and hearty meal that can be prepared quickly? Look no further than this delicious and easy rice and carrot chowder recipe.

Packed with nutritious carrots, tender rice, and warm spices, this hearty chowder is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you warm on a chilly day. Plus, it can be prepared with basic pantry ingredients, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this flavorful chowder in no time.

Ingredients:

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups diced carrots
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup milk (can be substituted with almond milk for a dairy-free alternative)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent.

2. Add the diced carrots to the pot and continue sautéing for a few more minutes until they start to soften slightly.

3. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any excess starch, then add it to the pot along with the sautéed vegetables.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the carrots are tender.

6. Once the rice and carrots are fully cooked, pour in the milk and stir gently to incorporate it into the chowder. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully purée about half of the chowder until it reaches your desired consistency.

This step adds creaminess to the chowder while still leaving some chunks of carrots and rice for texture.

8. Return the pot to low heat and warm the chowder for a few more minutes if needed. Taste and adjust the seasonings if desired.

9. Serve the rice and carrot chowder hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. It pairs well with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Variation:

1. For added protein, you can incorporate cooked, shredded chicken breast or a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans into the chowder.

2. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes during the sautéing step.

3. Feel free to customize the spices according to your preference. Cumin, smoked paprika, or even a dash of nutmeg can add a delightful twist to the chowder.

4. If you enjoy a creamier texture, replace half of the vegetable broth with heavy cream or coconut milk.

5. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chowder will thicken upon cooling, so you might need to add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Enjoy a Hearty and Delicious Chowder!

This easy rice and carrot chowder recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying meal. It combines the goodness of carrots and rice with aromatic spices, resulting in a dish that is both nourishing and flavorful.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, this chowder is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and enjoy a warm bowl of comforting chowder that will keep you cozy all season long!.