Tomato soup with dumplings

Tomato soup with dumplings is a classic dish, full of flavors and colors, that brings a touch of warmth to any day. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a comforting yet healthy treat. Tomato soup is not only a delicious option but also an excellent source of vitamins, being high in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Additionally, the fluffy dumplings add a wonderful texture that transforms this soup into a true feast. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the soup:
- 1 kg ripe tomatoes
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 parsley root
- Celery leaves (for garnish and flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- 8 tablespoons semolina
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 ml sparkling water
- Salt, to taste

Preparing the soup

1. Blanching the tomatoes: Start by washing the tomatoes well under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot of boiling water for 3-4 minutes. This step will make peeling easier, and the juice will be more concentrated. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tomatoes from the water and let them cool enough to handle.

2. Cooking the vegetables: In another pot, add water and bring to a boil with the carrots, onion, bell pepper, and parsley root, chopped as desired. Add a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavors. Let the vegetables boil until tender, about 10-15 minutes. You can choose to leave the carrots whole or mash them together with the other vegetables, depending on the desired texture.

3. Preparing the tomato juice: Once the tomatoes have cooled, peel them and place them in a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth puree. Add this puree to the pot with the cooked vegetables. Place everything on low heat, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Preparing the dumplings

1. Beating the eggs: In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until frothy. This step is essential for achieving fluffy dumplings, so take your time.

2. Adding the yolks: In another bowl, mix the yolks with the olive oil until smooth. Then, gently fold in the beaten egg whites, taking care not to lose the air in the mixture.

3. Incorporating the semolina: Gradually add the semolina, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue mixing until the mixture easily pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Add 1-2 tablespoons of sparkling water for a fluffier texture.

Dumplings in the soup

1. Forming the dumplings: With the heat on low, add a quarter cup of cold water to the soup. Using a wet spoon, take portions of the dumpling mixture and drop them into the soup. Ensure the spoon is always wet to facilitate the dumpling formation.

2. Boiling: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the dumplings to puff up in the steam. This step will ensure the dumplings are fluffy and cooked evenly.

3. Finalizing: Once the time is up, remove the pot from the heat and add fresh celery leaves for an extra flavor boost. The dumplings should be easy to lift with a spoon and have an airy texture.

Serving

Serve the tomato soup with dumplings hot, garnished with fresh celery leaves or a dollop of sour cream if you desire extra creaminess. This soup can be accompanied by a slice of garlic toast or a crunchy crouton for a pleasant contrast.

Practical tips

- Choosing tomatoes: It is important to use ripe, flavorful tomatoes, preferably homegrown, for an intense taste.
- Customizing soups: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, depending on the season and preferences.
- Varied dumplings: Instead of semolina, you can use cornmeal or even oat flour for a gluten-free option.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the tomatoes and vegetables used, having a low-calorie content (about 150 calories per serving) and being an excellent option for a balanced diet. The dumplings add a touch of carbohydrates, providing energy and satiety.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace fresh tomatoes with canned ones?: Yes, but the taste will be different. Fresh tomatoes offer a more vibrant flavor.
- Can I make the soup in advance?: Yes, the soup can be prepared a day ahead. Reheat it gently before adding the dumplings.
- What other recipes pair well with this?: This soup pairs perfectly with fresh salads or a cheese platter.

Tomato soup with dumplings is a recipe that combines tradition with innovation, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress friends, this recipe will always bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 kg tomatoes, 2 carrots, 2 onions, 2 bell peppers, 1 parsley root, celery leaves, salt, pepper. For dumplings: 2 eggs, 8 tablespoons semolina, a little olive oil, mineral water, salt.