Tomato soup
Tomato Soup - a classic, simple, and flavorful recipe
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Tomato soup is a dish that brings to mind summer meals, when tomatoes are ripe and aromatic. It is a quick recipe that delivers a unique taste, combining the sweetness of tomatoes with rich vegetable flavors. It is a perfect dish for warm days or when we want to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The history of this dish is lost in the mists of time, but it is known that soups and broths have always been appreciated for their nutritional value and for how they can transform simple ingredients into delicious meals. Tomato soup can be adapted according to preferences and available ingredients, making it a versatile recipe that you can modify anytime.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 large potato
- 1 parsnip
- 50 ml olive oil or sunflower oil
- 50 g rice (preferably long-grain)
- Whole peppercorns (about 5-6)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1.5 l water
- 1 teaspoon "secret vegetable flavor" (optional, for extra aroma)
- A few cherry tomatoes for garnish
- A little chopped fresh parsley for serving
Preparing the tomato soup
Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling and dicing the potato. The carrot you will use should be halved, while the parsnip can be left whole. These vegetables will give a delicious flavor to the soup. Dice the bell pepper into small cubes, and chop the onion finely.
Step 2: Boiling the vegetable base
In a large pot, add 1.5 liters of water and a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the water to a boil. Once the water starts to boil, add the diced potato, the whole carrot, the parsnip, the whole peppercorns, and the bay leaf. Cover the pot and let it boil for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables become tender.
Step 3: Preparing the aromatic base
Meanwhile, in a frying pan, add 50 ml of oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot and diced bell pepper, continuing to sauté for another 5 minutes. This step is essential for enhancing the flavors.
Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Add the canned tomatoes to the frying pan along with the dried basil. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, so that the tomatoes blend well with the other vegetables. Once the mixture is ready, add it to the pot with the boiled vegetables.
Step 5: Adding the rice
Add the washed rice to the soup and let everything simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes. The rice will absorb the flavors and provide a pleasant texture to the soup. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, modifying the seasonings to your preference.
Step 6: Serving
Once the soup is ready, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make the soup even more delicious. Serve the soup warm, with a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess or, for a vegan option, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. You can also add a few cherry tomatoes for a nice presentation.
Serving suggestions:
Tomato soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. If you want to give it a twist, add a few drops of balsamic vinegar for a flavor contrast.
Possible variations:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or celery, to diversify the texture and taste.
- Instead of rice, you can use quinoa or brown rice for added nutritional value.
- If you want a spicier soup, add a bit of chopped chili pepper or chili flakes.
Nutrition and calories:
This tomato soup is not only delicious but also healthy, being rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants due to the tomatoes and vegetables. A serving (approximately 250 ml) contains about 150-200 kcal, depending on the oil used and the added sour cream.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to blanch and peel them for a smoother texture.
2. How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is recommended to reheat it well before consuming.
3. Is tomato soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, especially if you omit the sour cream.
I hope you enjoy every spoonful of this tomato soup! It is a dish that will warm your soul and bring you closer to the delicious nature of fresh vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: Ingredients: 1 can of chopped tomatoes, 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 red bell pepper, 1 potato, 1 parsnip, 50 ml of oil, 50 g of rice, peppercorns, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1.5 liters of water, 1 teaspoon of vegetable flavor secret, a few cherry tomatoes for decoration, a little fresh parsley.
