Tomato soup with garlic

Tomato and Garlic Soup: A Simple and Comforting Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

On a cool day or when we crave a comforting meal, tomato and garlic soup becomes the perfect choice. This classic recipe, full of flavors, reminds us of moments when, as children, we cooked together with loved ones. It is a simple recipe, but with a taste that will delight our taste buds. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 1.5 kg ripe tomatoes (garden tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste)
- 1 large onion (for added flavor)
- 1 small carrot (for natural sweetness)
- 1 bunch of parsley (fresh, for a vibrant taste)
- 3 cloves of garlic (for an intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil (for a creamy texture)
- 200 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1-2 Knorr vegetable cubes (helps enhance the flavor)
- 2 liters of water

Necessary utensils:

- Large pot (preferably with a lid)
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Blender or strainer
- Wooden spoon
- Spatula

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Wash the tomatoes well and cut them into large pieces. This will make them easier to cook.
- Finely chop the onion and peel the carrot, slicing it into thin rounds.
- Peel the garlic cloves and lightly crush them with the blade of a knife to release the flavors.

2. Starting the cooking:
- In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the Knorr vegetable cubes and mix well to dissolve.

3. Adding the tomatoes:
- Place the tomato pieces in the pot, covering it with a lid. Let them soften over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will release their juice and begin to transform into a delicious base for the soup.

4. Adding the other ingredients:
- Once the tomatoes have softened, add the carrot, tied parsley (for easy removal later), washed rice, water, and salt. Add the teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.

5. Boiling the soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer covered for 30-35 minutes, until the rice is cooked and creamy.

6. Finishing the soup:
- After the soup has boiled, remove the parsley and, using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and homogeneous. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave some larger pieces.

7. Final heating:
- Put the soup back on the heat for a few minutes, stirring constantly. Taste and adjust the salt or sugar if necessary.

8. Serving:
- Serve the soup hot, with crispy croutons or a slice of toasted bread. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on top for added flavor.

Practical tips:

- Choosing tomatoes: Opt for well-ripened tomatoes, as they will bring a sweeter and more intense flavor. Cherry tomatoes can add an even sweeter note.
- Rice: If you want a gluten-free option, you can replace the rice with quinoa or a vegetable mix.
- Vegan option: Replace the butter with olive oil and ensure you use gluten-free vegetable cubes.
- Garnishes: You can add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt at serving to enrich the soup's texture.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals thanks to the tomatoes, which are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Garlic provides additional benefits for the immune system, while the carrot offers beta-carotene, essential for eye health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use canned tomatoes?: Yes, but choose whole or diced tomatoes without additives. Cook them a little longer to achieve the same consistency.
- How can I store the soup?: The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze portions to have on hand for busy days.
- What drinks pair well with the soup?: Pair it with cold sparkling water or a dry white wine, and a fresh green salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Personal note:

This tomato and garlic soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is a return to roots, an invitation to enjoy simple yet flavorful moments. I recommend preparing it on the weekend when you have time to savor each step of the process. It can become a staple recipe in your menu, perfect for enjoying with family or friends.

I hope this tomato and garlic soup recipe brings you joy and warmth in your days. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1.5 kg of tomatoes, 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 bunch of parsley, 3 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of butter or oil, 200 g of rice, 1 teaspoon of sugar, salt, 1-2 cubes of Knorr Vegetables, used at the beginning of the preparation as a base for the dish, 2 liters of water.