Tomato Soup with Dumplings

Tomato soup with dumplings - a recipe that blends the fresh flavors of vegetables with the rich taste of tomatoes, resulting in a comforting and nourishing dish. This soup is perfect for bringing a touch of warmth on cool days and can become a family favorite. I will guide you step by step in preparing this delicious recipe, providing you with some useful tips along the way.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the soup:
- 1.5 kg fresh tomatoes
- 700 ml tomato juice
- 1 dried onion or a bunch of green onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery (about 3-4 slices)
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh tarragon
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- Semolina (about 150 g, enough to achieve a mayonnaise-like consistency)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of baking powder (optional, for fluffier dumplings)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by thoroughly washing all the vegetables. Peel and finely chop the onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. You can choose to dice them or cut them into thin strips, depending on your preferences. These vegetables will add depth and flavor to your soup.

Step 2: Cooking the vegetables
Place the chopped vegetables in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Put the pot on the stove and let the vegetables simmer gently. You can either let them stew or boil, depending on how healthy you prefer the soup to be. At this point, you can also add a teaspoon of salt to help extract the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the tomatoes
Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. Blanch them in boiling water for about 1 minute, then let them cool. This is a simple technique that will make peeling much easier. Once cooled, peel and puree them well, either using a blender or a sieve.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Add the tomato puree obtained into the pot with the cooked vegetables. Mix well and add the tomato juice. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Add the finely chopped garlic for extra flavor. Let the soup simmer on low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. If necessary, add a little boiled water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Preparing the dumplings
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add the semolina, stirring constantly, until you achieve a mayonnaise-like consistency. If you want fluffier dumplings, you can add a pinch of baking powder. This step is essential for getting light and airy dumplings.

Step 6: Shaping and cooking the dumplings
When the soup starts to boil, reduce the heat to the minimum. Moisten a teaspoon with cold water and use it to shape the dumplings, carefully adding them to the soup. The dumplings will swell and become soft as they cook. Let them boil for 5-7 minutes until cooked.

Step 7: Finishing the soup
When the dumplings are ready, add the finely chopped parsley and tarragon. These herbs will add a fresh and vibrant taste to your soup. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly before serving.

Chef's tip
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a few bay leaves while boiling the vegetables. Additionally, a tablespoon of olive oil at the end can further enrich the soup's taste.

Vegetarian option
If you wish to turn this recipe into a vegan version, you can replace the eggs in the dumpling mixture with a blend of water and flaxseeds, which will act as a binding agent. Also, make sure the tomato juice and other ingredients are 100% plant-based.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This tomato soup with dumplings is not only delicious but also healthy. Each serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the size of the dumplings. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the vegetables add important fiber to your diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but the taste will be different. Choose quality tomatoes for the best results.

2. What is the best way to store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze it, it is recommended to add the fresh dumplings only at serving time.

3. What can I serve with the soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or crunchy croutons. You can add a drizzle of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy touch.

A personal note
I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who prepared this soup with so much passion. We would set the table together, and the aroma of fresh tomatoes and boiled vegetables always brought smiles to our faces. I recommend enjoying it with loved ones to turn every meal into an unforgettable memory.

Enjoy and find joy in every spoonful of tomato soup with dumplings!

 Ingredients: 1.5 kg tomatoes, 700 ml tomato juice, 1 dried onion or a bunch of green onions, 1 carrot, 3-4 slices of celery, 1 bell pepper, 2 cloves of garlic, fresh parsley, fresh tarragon, salt, pepper. For the dumplings: 2 eggs, flour, salt, pepper, a pinch of baking powder.