A comforting and flavorful soup inspired by stuffed peppers, perfect for a cozy meal.
Chop the bell peppers and onion into small pieces.
Uniformly chopped vegetables ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.
In a large pot, sauté the bell peppers and onion in a bit of oil until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to evenly cook the vegetables.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Adding garlic later prevents it from burning and turning bitter.
Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook until browned.
Break up the turkey into small pieces for even cooking.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute to enhance its flavor.
Cooking the paste briefly removes its raw taste and deepens the flavor.
Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine.
Scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits for added flavor.
Simmer the soup for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cover the pot partially to maintain a gentle simmer and prevent splattering.
Stir in the cooked rice and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for a balanced flavor.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
A sprinkle of parsley or basil adds a fresh touch to the dish.