Tomato cream soup

Creamy Tomato Soup - a simple, delicious, and comforting recipe

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

Creamy tomato soup is a dish that brings summer memories, even on the coldest winter days. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect to serve as an appetizer or even as a main course, with a rich flavor and velvety texture. Over time, tomato soup has evolved in various forms, but its essence remains unchanged: the perfect combination of the sweetness of tomatoes and the richness of vegetables.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 large can of whole or diced tomatoes (approx. 400 g)
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small celery
- 1 small beetroot
- Dried or fresh basil (to taste)
- Olive oil (2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation of creamy tomato soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling all the vegetables. Wash them well under cold running water. Cut the onion into small cubes, and the other vegetables (potatoes, carrots, parsnip, celery, and beetroot) into cubes of about 1-2 cm. This will help them cook evenly and quickly.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Place all the chopped vegetables in a large pot and add cold water until they are covered. Season with a little salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to let the vegetables simmer for about 20 minutes, until they become soft.

3. Preparing the puree: When the vegetables are cooked, drain the water, but keep a cup of the cooking liquid in case you want to adjust the soup's consistency. Put the cooked vegetables along with the can of tomatoes (with juice) into the food processor. Blend on high speed until you achieve a smooth puree. If the soup is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved vegetable liquid until you reach the desired consistency.

4. Seasoning the soup: Pour the creamy soup into a pot and add the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Heat the soup over low heat, stirring constantly. Here you can also add the dried or fresh basil to enhance the flavor.

5. Serving the soup: Creamy tomato soup can be served hot or cold, but it is especially comforting when hot. Garnish each serving with a few crispy croutons and a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil. If you want a creamy touch, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream on top.

Practical tips:

- Vegan option: If you want a vegan version, you can omit the sour cream or replace it with a plant-based yogurt.
- Customizing the recipe: You can add other vegetables depending on the season or your preferences, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
- Storing the soup: The soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

Nutritional benefits: Creamy tomato soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low caloric content. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while the vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients. This soup is a perfect choice for a healthy and balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can the soup be thickened? Yes, you can thicken the soup by adding potatoes or blending with white bean puree.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! Use about 800 g of ripe fresh tomatoes for an even more intense flavor.
- What can I do with leftover soup? Creamy tomato soup can be used as a base for sauces or to add flavor to pasta dishes.

Creamy tomato soup is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring warmth and comfort on colder days. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 large can of whole or diced tomatoes 2 potatoes 2 carrots 1 onion 1 parsnip 1 small celery 1 small beetroot dried or fresh basil oil salt pepper

 Tags:  tomato soup