Tomato cream soup

Creamy Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil

Discover the magic of a creamy tomato soup, a simple and delicious recipe that combines the natural flavors of fresh ingredients with a velvety texture. This soup is not only an explosion of taste but also a comforting dish, perfect for cool evenings or as an elegant appetizer for a special dinner. Throughout this guide, I will accompany you step by step, providing useful tips and interesting information about each ingredient.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 2 kg ripe tomatoes (ideally in season, local, for an authentic taste)
- 1 red onion
- 2-3 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 celery root
- 1-2 tablespoons of flour (food starch)
- Grape seed oil (or extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- Coriander seeds
- Salt or salt-free vegetable broth (optional, from organic stores)
- Freshly ground pink pepper
- 1 teaspoon of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream (12% fat, for added creaminess)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing the tomatoes well. Cut them into large slices, taking care to remove the stems. These are key for a soup with an intense flavor. Then, peel and chop the onion and vegetables (carrots, parsley root, parsnip, and celery) into cubes.

Step 2: Boiling the tomatoes and vegetables

In a large pot, add the tomato slices, onion, and chopped vegetables. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and sprinkle the coriander seeds. These will add a subtle yet distinctive aroma. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 20 minutes, until the tomatoes become soft and all the flavors combine.

Step 3: Straining the soup

After the tomatoes and vegetables have boiled, remove the pot from the heat. Using a fine sieve, strain the liquid, keeping the liquid in another pot. Use a spoon to press the mixture through the sieve to obtain a fine puree of tomatoes and vegetables. This step is essential for achieving a velvety texture.

Step 4: The roots and roux

In the same pot with the strained liquid, add the obtained puree. In a separate pan, prepare a roux from 1-2 tablespoons of flour. Add grape seed oil and mix well to obtain a paste. Gradually pour the warm soup over the roux, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once you have a uniform mixture, add it to the pot with the soup.

Step 5: Seasoning the soup

Add salt and freshly ground pink pepper to taste, as well as a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Let the soup boil for a few more minutes, about 5-10 minutes. If desired, you can add a small piece of butter for extra creaminess.

Step 6: Serving

When the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm in deep bowls, adding a spoonful of sour cream on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, which not only look wonderful but also add a fresh aroma.

Practical Tips

1. Fresh tomatoes: Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes, such as "garden tomato" or "autumn tomato". Their taste will transform this soup into a true delicacy.
2. The starch: If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the flour, and the soup will remain delicious but with a slightly thinner texture.
3. Vegan option: Replace the sour cream with plant-based yogurt or coconut milk for a completely vegan option, keeping the rich flavors.
4. Croutons: For added texture, you can add toasted bread croutons or garlic-rubbed toasted bread slices. These provide a pleasant contrast to the soup's juiciness.

Pairing with other dishes

This creamy tomato soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a savory vegetable tart. Additionally, you can accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or a light cocktail, such as a spritz, to complete the culinary experience.

Nutritional Benefits

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as powerful antioxidants like lycopene, which contribute to heart health and help combat inflammation. The vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients, making this soup not only tasty but also healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but ideally, choose varieties without additives to maintain the natural taste.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes during cooking for an extra flavor boost.
- Is the soup good for freezing? Yes, this soup freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

This creamy tomato soup is more than just a simple recipe; it's a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for moments when you want to indulge yourself. So put on your apron and get ready to enjoy a homemade delicacy, full of flavors and love! Enjoy your meal!