A hearty and flavorful soup combining the richness of tomatoes, the savoriness of sausage, and the comfort of rice.
Cook the smoked bacon and diced yellow onion in a skillet until golden and fragrant.
Ensure the bacon is crispy for added texture.
In a soup pot, combine the diced fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes, sugar, and the cooked bacon-onion mixture. Simmer gently.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cook the spicy Italian sausage in a separate pan with water until cooked through, then slice into rounds.
Cooking the sausage in water ensures even cooking.
Add the sausage slices, chicken broth, and oregano to the soup pot. Bring to a boil.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Stir in the long-grain rice and cook uncovered until tender, adding more broth if needed.
Keep an eye on the rice to avoid overcooking.
Remove from heat and mix in the grated parmesan cheese and unsalted butter. Season with salt and pepper.
The cheese and butter add a creamy texture.
Serve the soup in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.