Tomato soup
Tomato soup is a dish that evokes family memories, sunny days, and moments of culinary indulgence. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for refreshing everyday meals or adding a touch of freshness during festive periods. This Romanian delicacy is an excellent choice, especially after hearty holiday meals when we crave something light yet substantial.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh tomatoes (ideally smaller and more aromatic)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for a vibrant color)
- 2 bunches of carrots (about 300 g)
- 1 bunch of parsnip (about 150 g)
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 large onion
- 2 eggs (to thicken the soup)
- 50 ml palm oil (or olive oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Additionally, lemon juice (optional, for a tangier note)
- A handful of rice (about 100 g)
Useful tip: Buy seasonal tomatoes, as they are the most flavorful and nutrient-rich. If you enjoy quick preparations, you can use high-quality canned tomatoes, but nothing compares to the taste of fresh tomatoes!
Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the tomatoes, bell pepper, carrots, parsnip, and onion well. Remove the stem from the bell pepper and cut it into cubes. Peel the carrots and parsnip, then grate them or slice them thinly. The onion should be finely chopped.
2. Chopping the vegetables: Use a food processor to chop the onion, carrots, parsnip, and bell pepper. This will reduce preparation time and ensure a uniform texture for the soup.
3. Sautéing the vegetables: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Then add the carrots, parsnip, and bell pepper. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
4. Adding the rice: Once the vegetables have softened, add the rice and mix everything well. Let it sauté for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors of the vegetables.
5. Boiling the soup: Pour 2 liters of water over the vegetables and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until the rice and vegetables are fully cooked.
6. Preparing the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and cut them into large cubes (you can leave the skin on for a rustic look). Use the food processor to puree them, but do not make a complete puree, as a bit of texture is desired. Add the pureed tomatoes to the pot and let it boil for another 15 minutes.
7. Finalizing the soup: When the soup is ready, add salt to taste and, if you desire a tangier note, add lemon juice. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and gradually add them to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Finally, add the finely chopped lovage.
8. Serving: Serve the soup hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. You can also add a few lovage leaves for garnish and an extra hint of flavor.
Serving suggestion: This tomato soup pairs wonderfully with sour cream or a drizzle of quality olive oil. A slice of toasted bread can add a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the warm soup.
Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, and for a more intense flavor, you can add spices like basil or oregano. Another option is to replace the rice with quinoa for a healthier dish.
Nutritional benefits: Tomato soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the tomatoes and fresh vegetables. Tomatoes contain important antioxidants, such as lycopene, which help protect the body from various diseases.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but choose those without additives to preserve the natural taste.
- How can I store leftover soup? You can store the soup in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in airtight containers. It can also be frozen for later use.
- What other recipes can I make with tomatoes? You can try sauces, pasta, or even fresh salads with tomatoes, each offering a different approach to this versatile ingredient.
So, embark on a culinary adventure with this tomato soup and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 kg tomatoes, one bell pepper, a bunch of carrots, a bunch of parsnips, a bunch of lovage, one onion, 2 eggs, 50 ml oil (palm oil), salt, lemon (if you want it more sour), a handful of rice.
