Tomato soup

Tomato soup is a classic, comforting, and extremely flavorful recipe, perfect for cool days or moments when you need a light yet aromatic snack. This soup will not only warm your soul but also provide important nutritional benefits, thanks to the fresh and healthy ingredients it contains. Let's discover together how to prepare a delicious tomato soup, step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 small celery
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 3 carrots
- 1 ½ bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra sweetness)
- 1 onion
- 2 kg frozen tomatoes, peeled and cored
- 1 large cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 1 bunch of lovage (or to taste) and celery leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, optional

Preparation Technique:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing, peeling, and chopping all the vegetables. Cut the celery, parsley root, parsnip, and carrots into small cubes. These vegetables will give your soup a rich and deep flavor. The onion should be finely chopped, and the bell pepper sliced.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
Bring water to a boil in a large pot. When the water is boiling, add the chopped vegetables: celery, parsley root, parsnip, carrots, and onion. Let them boil over medium heat for about 30 minutes. This time will allow them to soften and release their flavors.

Step 3: Adding the bell pepper
After 30 minutes, add the bell pepper and continue to boil the mixture for another 10 minutes. The bell pepper will bring extra sweetness and balance the intense flavors of the other vegetables.

Step 4: The tomatoes
Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. If using frozen tomatoes, ensure they are completely thawed. Place them in a food processor and blend until you achieve a smooth puree. Add this tomato puree to the pot with the vegetables and let it boil for another 10-15 minutes. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from free radicals.

Step 5: The rice
Once the soup has boiled well, add the washed rice. Let the soup simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked. The rice will not only make the soup heartier but will also add a pleasant texture.

Step 6: Finalizing the soup
When the rice is ready, turn off the heat and add the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Finally, add the lovage and finely chopped celery leaves. These aromatic herbs will give your soup a fresh and vibrant flavor.

Serving:
Tomato soup is served hot, ideally alongside a slice of toasted bread with butter or cheese. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess. If you like, you can sprinkle some grated parmesan on top or a few croutons for a crunchy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low calorie content. Tomatoes are excellent for the immune system, while root vegetables are a good source of fiber that aids digestion. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and rice provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy.

Possible variations:
To add a touch of originality, you can try adding spices like basil or oregano. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier soup, you can add a few slices of chili pepper. Another delicious option would be to add some green vegetables, such as peas or green beans, for an extra splash of color and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of frozen tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to peel and deseed them for a smoother texture.

2. How can I store the soup?
Tomato soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use.

3. Can I add other types of vegetables?
Sure! You can experiment with zucchini, potatoes, or even mushrooms to vary the flavors.

4. What other recipes can it be paired with?
This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad or a warm cheese sandwich. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Relevant keywords:
tomato soup, simple recipe, healthy soup, vegetarian recipe, vegetable soup, tomato soup with rice, quick recipe.

I hope this tomato soup recipe has inspired you to start cooking! It is simple, tasty, and full of health, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!