Potato soup with tomatoes
Potato soup with tomatoes – a delicious and comforting recipe
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Potato soup with tomatoes is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and taste, perfect for cool days or when we want to indulge in a healthy and hearty dish. This soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the fresh vegetables and simple ingredients. Whether you choose to prepare it with chicken or make it completely vegetarian, the result will always be delicious!
Ingredients
- 5 large yellow potatoes
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- A handful of chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: a bit of fresh thyme
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 chicken breast
A brief history
Potato soup with tomatoes has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a dish that has evolved over time in households, using the ingredients available in each season. This simple recipe has often been cooked in families to bring loved ones together at the table, enjoying the natural flavors of seasonal vegetables.
Preparing the ingredients
1. Washing and peeling the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Peel the potatoes, carrots, onion, and bell pepper. It is important to use fresh vegetables to achieve an intense flavor.
2. Chopping the vegetables: Cut the onion and bell pepper into small cubes, and grate the carrot. The peeled potatoes should be cut into large cubes to cook evenly and add texture to the soup.
Cooking the soup
3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat 4 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, along with the grated carrot. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become slightly translucent.
4. Adding the tomatoes: Meanwhile, peel the tomatoes (you can do this by blanching them, meaning dipping them for a few seconds in hot water, then in cold water). Chop them finely and add them to the pot, along with a teaspoon of salt and the sweet paprika. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Preparing the broth: Add 3 tablespoons of broth and a cup of the liquid in which the chicken breast was boiled (if using chicken). If you are not using meat, you can skip this step, and the soup will remain just as tasty.
6. Boiling the potatoes: In another pot, add the chopped potatoes in salted water. Boil them until they are almost done (approximately 10-15 minutes). Once cooked, add the tomato sauce from the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes. The texture of the potatoes will contribute to creating a hearty and flavorful soup.
7. Finalizing the soup: Finally, add the chopped parsley and, if you like, a bit of fresh thyme. Mix well and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
Serving and suggestions
Potato soup with tomatoes is served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. It is delicious and can be accompanied by a splash of sour cream or hot peppers for those who prefer a spicy touch. A wonderful idea is to serve it with a glass of white wine or herbal tea for a complete meal.
Variations
- Vegetarian soup: An excellent option is to prepare the soup only with vegetables, skipping the chicken. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or celery for an even richer taste.
- Soup with beef or pork: If you want a heartier version, you can use boiled beef or pork cut into cubes instead of chicken.
Nutritional benefits
This soup is rich in vitamins A, C, and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, which are a source of long-term energy, while tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants. Additionally, the soup is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal!
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but it is recommended to thaw them before adding them to the soup to ensure even cooking.
- How long can I keep the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and its flavor becomes even better the next day.
- Is it necessary to add meat? No, the soup is delicious without meat, and the vegetables provide enough flavors to make the dish tasty.
Potato soup with tomatoes is a perfect choice for a comforting meal, full of color and flavor. I invite you to try it and share this recipe with your friends and family, bringing a touch of warmth to every home!
Ingredients: 5 larger yellow potatoes, 4 medium red ones, 2 carrots, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1 large onion, 1 red bell pepper, green parsley, optional - a little thyme, salt, optional - 1 chicken breast.
