Brown Rice Soup Recipes Vegetarian for Healthy Comfort Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Brown rice soup is a comforting, wholesome dish that beautifully combines the nuttiness of brown rice with the fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables and herbs. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a nutritious meal that’s gentle on the stomach, this vegetarian brown rice soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your menu, these recipes are sure to please your palate and nourish your body.

In this blog post, we’ll explore multiple delicious brown rice soup recipes that showcase the versatility of this ancient grain. From classic vegetable broths to hearty, creamy blends, these soups are not only rich in fiber and antioxidants but also completely vegetarian.

Ready your ladles and let’s dive into these soul-warming creations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brown rice soup is packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious foodies. The chewy texture of brown rice adds a delightful bite, while the variety of vegetables brings vibrant color and flavor.

This soup is naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and adaptable for different dietary preferences.

It’s also incredibly versatile — you can customize it with your favorite veggies, spices, and herbs. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks.

If you love recipes that are nutritious, delicious, and easy to make, brown rice soup is a must-try!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or ladle
  • Colander (for rinsing rice)
  • Optional: Immersion blender (for creamy variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water using a colander to remove excess starch. Set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add vegetables: Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
  4. Combine broth and rice: Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth, then stir in the rinsed brown rice. Add the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 40-45 minutes, or until the brown rice is tender.
  6. Add greens and zucchini: Stir in the diced zucchini and chopped kale or spinach. Cook uncovered for another 5-7 minutes until the greens wilt and the zucchini softens.
  7. Adjust seasoning and serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, blend half the soup with an immersion blender before adding the greens.

  • Try adding different vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or bell peppers for seasonal variety.
  • Boost protein by stirring in cooked chickpeas or white beans near the end of cooking.
  • For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
  • Swap brown rice with quinoa or barley for a different grain experience.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill for a bright finish.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1.5 cups)
Calories 220
Protein 6g
Fat 5g
Carbohydrates 38g
Fiber 4g
Sodium 450mg

Serving Suggestions

This brown rice soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a light yet filling dinner.

For an appetizer, try the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes to complement the gentle flavors of the soup.

If you’re in the mood for a comforting dessert after your soup, the Kentucky Bourbon Carrot Cake Recipe is a fantastic choice that balances spice and sweetness perfectly.

Delicious Brown Rice Soup Recipes Vegetarian

Classic Hearty Brown Rice Vegetable Soup

This recipe sticks to the basics with a medley of carrots, celery, onions, and mushrooms simmered with brown rice. It’s a great all-rounder that’s both filling and nourishing.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Follow the general instructions above for sautéing and simmering.
  2. Simmer the soup for 45 minutes until rice and vegetables are tender.
  3. Adjust seasoning and garnish before serving.

Creamy Coconut Brown Rice Soup

For a tropical twist, this soup uses coconut milk to add creaminess without dairy. It’s fragrant with ginger and turmeric, making it both flavorful and anti-inflammatory.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil

Instructions

  1. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in oil until fragrant.
  2. Add turmeric, carrots, brown rice, and vegetable broth.
  3. Simmer covered for 40 minutes until rice is tender.
  4. Stir in coconut milk and spinach, cook until spinach wilts.
  5. Season to taste and serve warm.

Spicy Tomato Brown Rice Soup

This soup is robust and warming, with the addition of diced tomatoes and a touch of chili for heat. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 5 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
  2. Add carrots, green beans, smoked paprika, cayenne, and brown rice.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer covered for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Conclusion

Brown rice soup is a nourishing, versatile dish that fits perfectly into any vegetarian meal plan. Its hearty texture and rich flavors can be easily customized to suit your taste and seasonal availability of ingredients.

Whether you prefer a classic vegetable medley, a creamy coconut version, or a spicy tomato base, these recipes provide wholesome comfort food with plenty of nutritional benefits.

Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to make these soups your own. And don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on the blog like our Horse Cough Syrup Recipe or Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for more culinary inspiration.

Warm up your kitchen and your soul with these delicious vegetarian brown rice soups today!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Brown Rice Soup

Description: A hearty and nutritious brown rice soup packed with vegetables and warm spices. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped kale or spinach

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add carrots, celery, and potato; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  6. Stir in cooked brown rice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  7. Add kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  8. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 38 g

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Marta K

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