Tomato and vegetable cream soup

Tomato and Vegetable Cream Soup: a warm embrace in every spoonful

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Tomato and vegetable cream soup is a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days or moments when you need a little comfort on your plate. This recipe not only adds a splash of color to your dish but is also an explosion of healthy flavors that will lift your spirits. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

The story behind the recipe

Tomato soup is a classic dish, appreciated worldwide. Over time, it has evolved from a simple combination of tomatoes and water to a rich and creamy soup enriched with various vegetables. This recipe will provide you not only with a delicious taste but also an effective way to include more vegetables in your diet, offering a rich supply of vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

- 3 jars of tomatoes in their own juice (approximately 800 g)
- 4 medium potatoes
- 3 red onions
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 celery
- 2 carrots
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 1 small cup of olive oil (approximately 60 ml)
- 1 cube of butter (approximately 20 g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Necessary utensils

- A large pot
- A blender (or an immersion blender)
- A frying pan
- A knife
- A cutting board
- A strainer

Preparation steps

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by washing all the vegetables under a stream of cold water. This is an essential step to remove any impurities. Once washed, cut the vegetables into small cubes. Use a sharp knife to make your work easier.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables

Place the chopped vegetables (potatoes, onions, peppers, celery, and carrots) in a large pot and add water. Make sure the water covers the vegetables. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.

Step 3: Processing the tomatoes

Put the 3 jars of tomatoes in their own juice into a blender. Add a little salt to enhance the flavor. Blend until you get a smooth paste. If you don’t have a blender, you can also use an immersion blender directly in the pot after the vegetables have boiled.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients

After the vegetables are boiled, strain the broth using a strainer and set it aside. Add the boiled vegetables to the blender with tomatoes and blend until you achieve a smooth cream. Gradually add the reserved broth until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Flavoring the soup

In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden. Be careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter. Add this garlic mixture to the tomato and vegetable soup.

Step 6: Finalizing the soup

Add the cube of butter to the soup and mix well. Let the soup come to a boil for a few minutes. Taste and add salt and pepper as preferred.

Useful tips

- Calories and nutritional benefits: This soup is low in calories, with approximately 150-200 calories per serving. It is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
- Vegan option: If you want to turn this recipe into a vegan option, you can omit the butter or replace it with vegan butter.
- Optional additions: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or broccoli, to diversify the textures and flavors.
- Garnishes: Serve the soup with crispy croutons or a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you will need to peel them and cook them longer to achieve a smooth texture.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for longer storage in individual portions.
- What can I serve alongside the soup? This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or a fresh green salad.

Serving suggestion

To add an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley on top of the soup. This detail will not only enhance the appearance of the plate but will also provide a fresh and aromatic taste.

Now, with this tomato and vegetable cream soup recipe, you are ready to bring smiles and good vibes to every meal. Enjoy every spoonful and relish the benefits of a healthy meal! Bon appétit!