Tomato soup

Lenten Tomato Soup - A Warm and Comforting Delight

If there is a dish that brings together flavors, tradition, and the comfort of home cooking, then tomato soup is definitely on the favorites list. It’s the meal that reminds us of sunny days, the simple joys of life, and, most importantly, a meal cooked with love. This tomato soup will quickly become your favorite, especially on fasting days or cool evenings when you crave a steaming bowl of goodness.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings (for a pot of about 6 liters)

Essential ingredients:
- 500 ml concentrated tomato juice or 800 g canned tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 large onion
- 1 celery root
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red)
- salt to taste
- a pinch of lemon salt (optional)
- noodles or homemade pasta (optional)
- fresh parsley for garnish

Tomato Soup Preparation - Step by Step Guide:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the vegetables. Wash the carrot, parsnip, onion, celery, and bell pepper well. Cut them into large pieces. This doesn’t have to be perfect; they will be blended later.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Place the chopped vegetables in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Add salt to taste. Bringing the water to a boil will release the flavors of the vegetables, contributing to a rich taste.

3. Blending: After the vegetables have boiled well (about 20 minutes), remove them with a slotted spoon and blend them in a blender or with an immersion mixer. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.

4. Adding the tomato juice: Put the puree back in the pot and add the concentrated tomato juice. If using canned tomatoes, blend them before adding. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes so the flavors can combine.

5. Adjusting the taste: Taste the soup and adjust the salt, adding a pinch of lemon salt if necessary, especially if the tomato juice is not homemade and has a sweeter taste.

6. Adding the noodles: If you want to turn the soup into a heartier dish, add noodles or pasta to the boiling soup. Turn off the heat after the noodles have cooked according to the package instructions.

7. Finishing the dish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and serve the soup hot, preferably with bread croutons or a slice of toasted bread.

Tips and Useful Advice for a Perfect Result:
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for an intense and natural flavor.
- Homemade tomato juice is always preferable to store-bought, as it is free from additives and added sugars.
- If you want to give it a special touch, you can add a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil at the end for a richer taste and a velvety texture.
- You can vary the recipe by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to make the soup even more nutritious.

Ideal Pairings:
Tomato soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a savory tart. You can also accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or a light herbal tea to aid digestion.

Nutritional Benefits:
This tomato soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body's cells. Additionally, the vegetables used provide essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and low-calorie option.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you will need to boil and blend them before adding them to the soup.
- Can tomato soup be frozen?
Absolutely! This soup freezes excellently. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes during preparation for a spicy kick.

Lenten tomato soup is not just a savory dish but also a symbol of culinary traditions that bring us together. Serve it with love, enjoy its flavors, and let it evoke pleasant memories.