Tomato soup

Tomato Vegetable Soup – A Warm Embrace on a Chilly Day

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

I present to you a recipe that combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with the sweetness of tomatoes, offering a delicious and comforting soup. This tomato vegetable soup is perfect for cool evenings when you crave the warmth of a steaming bowl. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, you will love every spoonful!

A Bit of History
Tomato soup has a long and fascinating history, evolving over time and bringing together influences from various culinary cultures. It is believed that tomatoes were brought to Europe from South America, and since then, they have become an essential ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. This simple yet rich soup is often associated with moments of conviviality and warmth within the family.

Ingredients – Your Kitchen Friends
To prepare this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 cans of tomatoes in juice or 10 fresh tomatoes, blanched, peeled, and chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- 1 chili pepper, halved, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 4 nests of noodles (you can also use short pasta if you prefer)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing

Ingredient Details
Tomatoes, whether fresh or canned, are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells. Carrots add sweetness and vitamins, while celery provides a crunchy texture and distinct flavor. The chili pepper is optional but adds a touch of flavor and mild heat. The noodles enrich the soup and make it a heartier dish.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Soup
1. Vegetables: Try to use fresh, seasonal vegetables for an intense flavor. If you have root vegetables like parsnips or turnips on hand, feel free to add them for a more complex taste.
2. Tomatoes: If you choose fresh tomatoes, make sure they are ripe and juicy. Blanch them quickly in boiling water to make peeling easier.
3. Noodles: You can adjust the amount of noodles based on your preferences. If you want a lighter soup, use less noodles.
4. Spices: Play around with the spices! Add freshly chopped basil for a Mediterranean taste or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Step-by-Step – Making the Soup
1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by peeling and chopping the carrots, celery, and bell pepper into small cubes. Set them aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables, a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent and aromatic.
3. Adding water: Pour water over the vegetables – adjust the amount based on how soupy you want it (about 1.5-2 liters would be ideal). Add the bouillon cube and oregano, then let it come to a boil.
4. Tomatoes: When the vegetables are nearly cooked (after about 15-20 minutes), add the canned tomatoes (or the fresh ones if you used those). Stir well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
5. Chili and noodles: Slice the chili pepper in half, remove the seeds, and cut it into thin strips. Add it to the pot along with the noodles. Let everything simmer on low heat until the noodles are cooked (about 7-10 minutes).
6. Finishing the soup: Once the noodles are ready, stir in the freshly chopped parsley and adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and remove the pot from the heat.

Serving Suggestions
Serve the tomato soup hot, with a slice of fresh homemade bread or crispy croutons. You can drizzle a little olive oil on top or add grated Parmesan for extra flavor. A bottle of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade perfectly complements the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned tomatoes are very suitable for this recipe and will add a rich flavor.
2. How can I adapt the recipe to be vegetarian?
Make sure to use a vegetarian bouillon cube and avoid any animal-derived ingredients.
3. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

Nutritional Benefits
This tomato vegetable soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, which contribute to heart health. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this soup an excellent choice for a light lunch or dinner. A serving of soup contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of noodles used.

Unique Variation
For an exotic twist, you can add a splash of coconut milk and a few fresh cilantro leaves, transforming the soup into a tropical delicacy. This variation is perfect for those who love new and surprising flavors.

In conclusion, tomato vegetable soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences. I encourage you to experiment and bring your own ideas to this classic recipe. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 2 red tomatoes in broth or 10 blanched, peeled, and chopped small tomatoes, 2 medium carrots, 2 celery stalks, 1 bell pepper, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 vegetable seasoning cube, 1 hot pepper, noodles (I used 4 nests of noodles), finely chopped parsley (to taste), salt and pepper.

 Tags:  soup tomato soup vegetables