Tomato soup

Tomato Soup – a warm hug in a bowl

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Tomato soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of childhood, of moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be adapted in numerous ways. Today, I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious, aromatic, and comforting soup that will bring a touch of sunshine to less sunny days.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh tomatoes (you can also use canned tomatoes in an emergency)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow), diced
- 1 piece of celery, finely chopped
- 100 g rice (or noodles, according to preference)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for decoration
- Optional: a little olive oil or butter for sautéing the vegetables

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Chop the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and celery into small pieces. This not only helps with even cooking but also provides a pleasant presentation.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Put the chopped vegetables (onion, carrot, bell pepper, and celery) in a large pot with water (about 1.5 liters) and add a little salt. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. If desired, you can add a little olive oil or butter to sauté the vegetables before boiling for a more intense flavor.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them for a few minutes in hot water, then peel and blend them with a blender or a fork. When the vegetables are halfway cooked, add the blended tomatoes to the pot and mix well.

4. Cooking the soup: Continue to boil the soup for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will add a fresh flavor and a sweet taste to your soup. Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and stir.

5. Adding the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water, then add it to the pot. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the rice is cooked and all the flavors have nicely combined. If you prefer, you can replace the rice with noodles or even dumplings, just like Oana from our stories used to do.

6. Finishing the soup: Finally, adjust the taste with salt, to your liking. Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving suggestions:

Tomato soup can be served warm, alongside crispy croutons or a slice of fresh bread. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier taste and rich texture. If you want a spicy note, try adding a few chili flakes.

Nutritional information:

This soup is not only delicious but also healthy! Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the vegetables used provide a significant amount of fiber and nutrients. A serving of tomato soup (approximately 250 ml) contains about 120 calories, making it a perfect choice for an appetizer or a light meal.

Possible variations:

- Tomato basil soup: Add a few fresh basil leaves at the end for a Mediterranean taste.
- Spicy tomato soup: Add half a chopped chili pepper or a few chili flakes for a touch of heat.
- Tomato soup with cheese: Serve the soup with crumbled feta cheese on top for a salty and creamy note.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, canned tomatoes are an excellent alternative and can save time. Make sure to choose options without added preservatives.
2. How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later, but it’s best to add the rice or noodles after thawing, as they can become mushy.
3. What goes well with tomato soup? This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a sandwich with melted cheese.

Tomato soup is a symbol of comfort on a plate, a recipe that will warm you up and bring a smile to your face. Try it and don’t forget to use your creativity! Add your favorite ingredients and transform this classic recipe into a personalized culinary masterpiece. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!