Tomato soup

Tomato soup is a classic recipe, full of flavors and colors, that brings a touch of sunshine to every bowl. This soup is not only delicious but also healthy, being an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants. It's perfect for chilly days or as a quick and comforting snack. Let's discover together how to prepare a tasty tomato soup, step by step!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 2.5 kg ripe tomatoes (choose well-ripened tomatoes for an intense flavor)
- 1 liter of water
- 1-2 tablespoons of sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (optional, for an extra flavor)
- A few fresh basil leaves (for an aromatic taste)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 medium onions
- 1 celery (root and leaves)
- 2 bell peppers (preferably red or yellow for vibrant color)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 piece of celeriac (or parsley root)
- A handful of rice (to thicken the soup)
- A bunch of lovage (for a fresh taste)
- A bunch of parsley (to add freshness)
- Olive or sunflower oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Brief history

Tomato soup is a recipe that has traversed centuries, adapting over time according to available ingredients and cultural preferences. Whether served hot or cold, this soup is a symbol of culinary tradition, with deep roots in gastronomy. It is a versatile recipe that can be enriched with various ingredients, depending on the season or personal tastes.

Step by step for a perfect tomato soup

Step 1: Preparing the tomatoes

To achieve a velvety tomato soup, the first steps involve blanching the tomatoes. Place the tomatoes in a pot with a liter of boiling water and leave them for about 1-2 minutes. This process will help with easy peeling. After that, remove the tomatoes and place them under a stream of cold water to stop the cooking. Carefully peel them and cut them into halves or quarters.

Useful tips: Choose seasonal tomatoes, preferably from local sources, for a more intense taste and better texture. Roma or San Marzano tomatoes are excellent for soups.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

In a pan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Peel and chop the onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Grate the carrot for a vibrant color and finer texture. Add the carrot to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes slightly soft.

Then add the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper, stirring periodically. Cook the vegetables together for 5-10 minutes until they become translucent and the flavors blend.

Step 3: Boiling the soup

After the vegetables have been sautéed, transfer them to the pot where you blanched the tomatoes. Add the 1 liter of water in which the tomatoes were boiled. Allow the mixture to boil over medium heat. At this point, it's time to add a pinch of salt and, if desired, a little sugar to reduce the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 4: Flavoring the soup

In a mortar, crush the garlic together with the basil leaves and thyme to release the flavors. Add this paste to the soup, along with the peeled tomatoes, rice, and chopped greens (lovage and parsley). Let it boil for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the vegetables are well done.

Step 5: Finishing the soup

When all the ingredients are cooked, remove the soup from the heat and use an immersion blender to blend everything until you achieve a velvety consistency. If you prefer a more rustic soup, you can leave some whole vegetable pieces. The taste and texture will be delicious regardless of your choice.

Step 6: Serving

After the soup has been blended, serve it hot, garnished with a spoonful of sour cream and a little fresh greenery on top for an appealing look. This tomato soup pairs perfectly with crispy croutons or a slice of toasted bread drizzled with olive oil.

Possible variations

- Tomato soup with cheese: Add cubes of mozzarella or feta cheese to the soup for extra flavor and a creamy texture.
- Spicy tomato soup: If you want to give it a spicy note, add chili flakes or hot sauce, to taste.
- Tomato soup with croutons: Prepare croutons from toasted bread, drizzled with olive oil and spices, and add them to the bowl of soup for a crunchy contrast.

Nutritional benefits

Tomato soup is rich in vitamin C, lycopene (a powerful antioxidant), and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Tomatoes are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to heart health. Additionally, the added vegetables provide essential nutrients such as vitamins A and K, and minerals like potassium and magnesium.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be successfully used, but the taste will be slightly different. Look for varieties without added preservatives for a more authentic taste.

2. How can I store the soup?
Tomato soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. You can freeze it in small portions to have on hand whenever you want a quick lunch or light dinner.

3. What other dishes can it be paired with?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

So now that you are equipped with all the necessary information, don't hesitate to try this delicious tomato soup recipe. Share it with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together at the table. Bon appétit!