Tomato soup

Vegetable Soup with Tomatoes and Ginger

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

Ingredients:
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 green bell pepper
- 4 potatoes
- 1 kg of fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes if not available)
- 1 cm of fresh ginger
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Croutons, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)

A bit of history

Vegetable soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a symbol of comfort and health, making it an excellent option for any meal. This recipe combines the traditional flavors of vegetables with a hint of ginger, adding an extra layer of flavor and freshness. In many cultures, soup is considered a remedy for colds, a dish that brings warmth and comfort on chilly days.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling the onion, carrots, green bell pepper, and potatoes. Cut the onion into large pieces, the carrots into rounds, and the potatoes into cubes. The bell pepper can be sliced into strips or cubes, depending on preference. It is important that the vegetables are cut evenly for uniform cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion
In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until it becomes transparent and starts to release its aroma.

3. Adding the vegetables
After the onion has sautéed, add the carrots, bell pepper, and potatoes. Mix well to combine them with the sautéed onion. Now is the time to add the ginger, peeled and sliced thinly. The ginger adds a spicy and aromatic note, perfect for complementing the taste of the vegetables.

4. Boiling the vegetables
Pour 2 liters of water over the vegetables and bring everything to a boil. Once the water has started to boil, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer on low for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender. At this stage, the aroma of the vegetables will intensify, and the soup will develop a rich and comforting taste.

5. Blending the soup
When the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup. If using a regular blender, make sure to work in batches and not overfill the blender to avoid splattering. Add the chopped tomatoes to the blender and puree everything until you achieve a smooth consistency.

6. Finalizing the soup
Return the pureed soup to the pot and bring it back to the heat. Simmer the soup for another 10 minutes on low heat to intensify the flavors. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, as desired. At this point, you can also add a bit of chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving
Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for a creamy touch. Sprinkle freshly toasted croutons for added texture. This vegetable soup with tomatoes and ginger is perfect for chilly days as well as for moments when you need a light and healthy meal.

Practical tips:
- You can use your favorite vegetables or those that are in season. Vary the ingredients to experiment with different flavors.
- If you want a spicier soup, you can add a chopped chili pepper along with the ginger.
- For a more complex flavor, you can add spices like turmeric or sweet paprika.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later use.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a good option, but make sure to let them thaw before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup thicker?
You can add a larger potato or use a few tablespoons of rice or quinoa, which will cook during the boiling process.

3. Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is 100% vegetarian and vegan, making it perfect for any diet.

Pairings and variations
This vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of toasted bread or a fresh green salad on the side. You can accompany the meal with a dry white wine, which will complement the soup's flavors. Additionally, a cup of green tea or herbal tea can provide a pleasant and comforting contrast.

Nutritional benefits
This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This is a light and healthy option, with about 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the portion of sour cream and croutons added.

Get inspired by this simple yet delicious recipe that brings not only a healthy meal but also a story full of comfort. Cook with love and enjoy every spoonful!