Garden tomato soup

Tomato Soup with Chicken and Vegetables

On a cold winter day, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, flavorful soup. Tomato soup with chicken and vegetables is a simple and delicious recipe that combines fresh ingredients with a rich flavor, perfect for warming our souls. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for the whole family. Let’s get started!

Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 300g)
- 200ml milk
- 4-5 cups chicken broth (or water, depending on preference)
- 1 cup celery (stalks, finely chopped)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon heaping butter or margarine
- 4 cups peeled and chopped tomatoes (approximately 7 medium garden tomatoes)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon curry (or 1/2 for a stronger flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus an additional teaspoon to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper (or 1/4 for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon heaping flour
- Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Soup:

Step 1: Cooking the Chicken Breast
Start by boiling the chicken breast in a pot with water or chicken broth. Add a little salt to enhance the flavor. Simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, until the meat is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken breast from the pot and let it cool slightly, then cut it into cubes.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrot, and diced bell pepper. Sauté them gently for 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. This step is essential for extracting the flavors of the vegetables.

Step 3: Creating the Soup Base
In a large pot, add 200ml of milk and mix well with the chicken cubes. Then, add the 4-5 cups of broth in which the chicken was cooked, along with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Adding Tomatoes and Spices
Add the chopped tomatoes, sugar, curry, salt, and pepper. These ingredients will bring an extra layer of flavor and sweetness to the soup. Let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Thickening the Soup
To thicken the soup, mix the flour with 1/2 cup of cold broth from the pot to avoid lumps. Add this mixture to the soup and bring to a boil. This technique is very useful for achieving a creamy soup.

Step 6: Finalizing and Serving
Once the soup has come to a boil, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley. This will add a fresh and vibrant taste. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.

Serving Suggestions
This delicious soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. You can serve it with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits
This soup is an excellent source of protein thanks to the chicken breast and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Tomatoes bring lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while celery and carrots contribute to fiber intake. It’s a healthy choice that will not only satiate your hunger but also boost your mood.

Possible Variations
You can customize this soup according to your preferences. For example, add zucchini or squash for a sweet flavor. If you like spicy food, feel free to add a bit of chili pepper or hot sauce for an extra kick. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are an excellent alternative, especially when fresh tomatoes are not available. Just make sure to choose ones without additives.

2. Is this a good recipe for meal prep?
Yes, this soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later use.

3. What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with basil, oregano, or even a bit of turmeric for a distinct flavor.

Final Notes
This tomato soup with chicken and vegetables is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will bring a touch of warmth to cold days. Try it and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!