Spicy tomato soup

Spicy Tomato Soup – An Explosion of Flavors

Spicy tomato soup is a dish that combines the intense flavor of tomatoes with a fragrant mix of spices and a touch of heat that gives it a unique character. This soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need an energy boost. Even though the ingredient list may seem long, each element plays an essential role in creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Let's discover together how we can prepare it!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 600 ml tomato passata (or any preferred tomato juice)
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons of pepper paste or pepper broth
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 dried chili peppers
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Fresh parsley or, even better, fresh coriander
- 200 g noodles (preferably rice or wheat noodles)
- 1 tablespoon butter or cooking oil
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a truly fiery taste!)
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Thin slices of ginger for garnish
- Yogurt for serving

Instructions

1. Preparing the flavors: In a medium-sized pot, add the butter or oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the finely chopped garlic cloves, grated ginger, and dried spices (coriander, turmeric, sweet paprika, dried chili peppers, and garam masala). Mix well until the aromas begin to release, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Adding the tomatoes: Once you can smell the spices, add the tomato passata (or the tomato juice you chose) and let it simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the passata is too concentrated, feel free to add a little water to achieve a more pleasant consistency.

3. Seasoning: Add the Worcestershire sauce (if using) and salt to taste. These ingredients will enhance the soup's flavor and provide a pleasant depth.

4. Cooking the noodles: Add the noodles to the soup and let them cook according to the package instructions. Usually, the noodles will need 5-7 minutes, but check constantly to achieve the desired texture.

5. Serving: Once the noodles are ready, remove the pot from the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes. Serve the soup hot, garnished with yogurt, fresh parsley or coriander, and thin slices of ginger for an extra burst of flavor.

Helpful tips

- Choosing tomatoes: If you prefer a tangier taste, use fresh tomatoes or a mix of passata with cherry tomatoes for natural sweetness.
- Heat level: If you like to experiment, add a pinch of chili powder or even a fresh sliced chili for an extra kick.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini to make the soup heartier. Also, for a vegetarian option, replace the noodles with quinoa or rice.
- Serving: This delicious soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of garlic toast or crunchy croutons.

Nutritional benefits

Spicy tomato soup is an excellent nutritional choice. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Ginger and garlic not only add flavor but also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. This soup is a low-calorie option, with about 150 calories per serving, ideal for a light meal.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of passata?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes provide a vibrant flavor. Make sure to blend them well after cooking to achieve a smooth consistency.

What can I do if the soup is too spicy?
If you've added too much chili, add a little yogurt or cream to balance the taste.

What are the best toppings for this soup?
In addition to yogurt, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or flavored croutons are excellent. Also, a green salad with lemon and olive oil can perfectly complement the meal.

What can I serve with spicy tomato soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a tuna salad or a grilled cheese sandwich. A refreshing drink, such as mint tea or fresh citrus juice, will perfectly complete the meal.

This spicy tomato soup recipe not only brings flavors to life but also family stories and pleasant moments spent around the table. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a delicious soup and celebrate every bite! Culinary delights are just a step away, so let's get cooking!