Creamy red pepper, tomato, and carrot soup (red soup)

Creamy bell pepper, tomato, and carrot soup – a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful recipe, perfect for chilly days or a quick and nourishing lunch. This red soup is not just a delicacy, but an explosion of colors and flavors that will delight your senses and bring a touch of warmth to every bowl. Let's explore the steps necessary to create a delicious soup, along with some tricks to transform your dish into a memorable experience.

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

Ingredients:

- 3 red bell peppers
- 1-2 ripe tomatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 medium onion
- 1 potato
- 1 parsnip
- 50 g celery
- 2-3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon butter (about the size of a walnut)
- 150 ml milk
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 fresh or pickled peppers
- A few spinach and parsley leaves for garnish
- Salt, pepper, paprika to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the carrots, potato, onion, celery, and parsnip. Wash them thoroughly and cut them into large pieces. This step not only helps you organize your ingredients but also gives you an idea of the quantity of soup you will get.

2. Peppers and tomatoes: Wash the bell peppers and tomatoes. Remove the stems and seeds from the peppers and cut them into large pieces. The tomatoes can be used with their skins, but if you prefer a smoother soup, you can blanch them in hot water for a few seconds and then peel them.

3. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2.5 liters of cold water and a pinch of salt. Add all the chopped vegetables to the water and let them simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the vegetables to reveal their natural flavors and blend perfectly.

4. Seasoning: After 30 minutes, add the sugar, olive oil, ketchup, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. The sugar will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while the ketchup will add a touch of sweetness and an intense flavor.

5. Blending: Remove the pot from the heat and add the butter and milk. Use an immersion blender to blend everything until you achieve a creamy and smooth consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in small batches to a regular blender.

6. Serving: Pour the soup into deep plates. For an attractive presentation, garnish each serving with strips of fresh or pickled peppers and a few spinach or parsley leaves. This detail will not only add color but also a touch of freshness.

Useful tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor. The red bell peppers should be meaty and juicy, and the tomatoes should be ripe for an intense taste.

- Variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables to the recipe, such as zucchini or eggplant. If you like Eastern flavors, add a pinch of curry or cumin.

- Nutritional benefits: This soup is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to the vegetables used. Bell peppers and tomatoes are excellent sources of vitamin C, while carrots are full of beta-carotene, which is beneficial for vision.

- Pairing with other dishes: The soup can be served alongside toasted bread croutons or a fresh green salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a mint lemonade would perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, you can add pre-cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier soup.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for a longer period.

3. What can I use instead of milk?
If you prefer a vegan option, you can replace the milk with almond or coconut milk for an interesting taste.

Personal note:
This creamy bell pepper, tomato, and carrot soup has become a favorite in my family, especially in the cold season when we crave something comforting. I fondly remember the moments spent around the table, savoring each spoonful and sharing stories. I encourage you to bring your own memories into every bowl of soup you prepare. Enjoy your meal!