Corn soup with tomatoes

Corn and Tomato Soup - a warm hug in every bowl

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

On cool mornings or relaxing evenings, a warm soup is always an excellent option. And corn and tomato soup is not only simple but also full of flavors and textures that will delight your senses. This recipe is easy to make, requiring common ingredients, and the result is a delicious and comforting combination that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.

The history of corn soup is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Corn, a versatile and nutritious ingredient, has been used for centuries in various dishes, and when combined with juicy tomatoes, the result is a symphony of flavors and colors.

Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil, as preferred)
- 750 ml vegetable broth (or water, but broth will add extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 can diced tomatoes in sauce (about 200g)
- 2 small cans of corn kernels (about 300g total)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and garlic. Also, drain the corn from the cans and prepare the diced tomatoes. These steps will help you save time during cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion and garlic: In a deep pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the chopped garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its aroma, being careful not to burn it.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and mix well. Let them simmer together with the onion and garlic for 5 minutes. Here, the flavors will start to combine, creating a delicious base for the soup.

4. Adding the vegetable broth: Pour the vegetable broth (or water) into the pot and stir. Once everything reaches a boil, add the first can of corn. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld and the flavors to develop.

5. Blending the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup. It will become creamy without losing the texture of the corn. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender, but be sure to leave some space for steam to avoid spills.

6. Finishing the soup: Return the pureed soup to the heat and adjust the taste with salt and pepper. Add the second can of corn, stir, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Now, your soup is almost ready!

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. This will add a touch of freshness and color to your dish. You can accompany the soup with crunchy croutons or a slice of toasted bread for added texture.

Practical tips:
- For a deeper flavor: Instead of vegetable broth, you can use chicken broth for a more intense taste.
- Ingredient variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or peppers, to enrich the soup. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon at the end can add a note of acidity that will enhance the flavors.
- For an extra flavor boost: During the sautéing of the onion, you can add a teaspoon of sweet or hot paprika, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 180
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh corn? Absolutely! Freshly boiled corn adds extraordinary flavor, but make sure to add it at the end so it doesn’t become too soft.
- How can I store the soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 days. You can freeze the soup in small portions to enjoy later.
- What drinks pair well with this soup? A fresh lemonade or a light white wine would perfectly complement the meal.

Corn and tomato soup is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring a touch of warmth to your days. By sharing this recipe with loved ones or enjoying it in the tranquility of your home, you will discover that each spoonful is a warm kiss of comfort. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 onion, 1 tablespoon oil, 750ml vegetable broth, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/2 can diced tomatoes in sauce, 2 small cans of corn kernels, salt, pepper, parsley