Tomato cream soup.

Tomato cream soup, a simple and flavorful delicacy, is a perfect choice for any occasion. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of sunshine to your plate. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, tomato cream soup will delight the taste buds of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 500 g ripe, fragrant tomatoes
- 2 medium potatoes (approximately 300 g)
- 1 small red onion
- 1.5 liters vegetable broth (or water with a Knorr cube)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For serving:
- Crunchy croutons
- Fresh cream
- Extra virgin olive oil

A touch of history:

Tomato soup is a beloved dish worldwide, with deep roots in culinary traditions. It has evolved over time, influenced by various cultures, but its essence remains the same: a perfect combination of flavors and fresh ingredients. Tomatoes, in particular, have been appreciated for their versatility and fresh taste, and this soup is the perfect proof of how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparing the ingredients:

1. Tomatoes: Choose ripe tomatoes with a vibrant color and intense aroma. You can use garden tomatoes if you have access, as their flavor is unmatched. To peel the tomatoes more easily, you can make a small cross incision on the bottom of each tomato and immerse them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then in cold water.

2. Potatoes: Choose medium-sized potatoes, preferably from varieties that boil easily. Peel and cut them into cubes of approximately 1 cm for even cooking.

3. Onion: Opt for red onion, which will add a hint of sweetness to the soup. Chop the onion finely so it can sauté quickly and evenly.

Step by step – Preparing the soup:

1. Start by preparing the vegetable broth. In a pot, add 1.5 liters of water and a Knorr cube. Bring the water to a boil, and once it starts boiling, stir to dissolve the broth cube. Once dissolved, set aside.

2. In a large pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning. When the onion becomes translucent and starts to turn golden, add the potato cubes. Let them sauté for 2 minutes, stirring periodically.

3. Add the vegetable broth to the pot, cover, and let it simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes. The potatoes should become soft.

4. After 15 minutes, add the diced tomatoes and a pinch of pepper. Continue to simmer the soup for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should be well cooked and release their delicious juice.

5. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it becomes creamy. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, but make sure the soup has cooled slightly before transferring. Check the consistency – it should be a smooth cream, but not too thick. If necessary, you can add a bit of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.

6. Once the soup is pureed, let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Finally, add the finely chopped basil leaves for an extra flavor boost.

Serving suggestions:

Serve the tomato cream soup in deep bowls. Add a teaspoon of fresh cream in the center of each serving, a few crunchy croutons on top, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra flavor.

This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or a panini with cheese and basil.

Tips and variations:

- You can also add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to diversify the flavor.
- If you want a spicier soup, you can add a finely chopped chili pepper during the onion sautéing.
- Instead of basil, you can try other fresh herbs like dill or oregano for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

This tomato cream soup is rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and antioxidants due to the tomatoes. The potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates, and the olive oil adds healthy fats. It can be an excellent option for a light meal or a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used, but the flavor of the soup will be different. Make sure to choose high-quality tomatoes.

2. How can I store the soup for later consumption?
The soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen in portions for later use.

3. Is it necessary to use vegetable broth?
You can use plain water, but vegetable broth will add depth of flavor.

Tomato cream soup is not just a delicious dish but also a fantastic way to enjoy fresh seasonal ingredients. Savor it with your loved ones and enjoy every spoonful!