Tomato soup with dumplings

Tomato soup with dumplings: a comforting delight for the soul

When it comes to comfort food, tomato soup with dumplings holds a special place in the hearts of many of us. It is a versatile dish, easy to prepare, that brings back memories of family Sunday meals or cool evenings spent with loved ones. This simple and tasty recipe can be made in no time, offering an explosion of flavors and a velvety texture. Let’s discover together the steps to achieve a perfect soup with fluffy dumplings!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the soup:
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cans of peeled tomatoes (or 1 kg of fresh tomatoes)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1.5 – 2 liters of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley or lovage, chopped

For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 9-10 tablespoons of semolina
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, carrot, and bell peppers into cubes or slices, as preferred. These vegetables will form the base of the soup, so make sure to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and bell peppers and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and add depth to the soup.

3. Adding the water: Pour in 1.5 – 2 liters of water into the pot, depending on how thin you want the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Pureeing the vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, use a blender to puree them until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can leave it partially unblended. Return the puree to the pot.

5. Adding the tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, peel them and puree them in the blender. Add them to the soup and let everything simmer for another 10 minutes. This is when the soup will take on a vibrant and delicious flavor.

6. Preparing the dumplings: In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt, then add the oil and mix well. Gradually add the semolina while stirring continuously until you have a homogeneous mixture that is firm enough to form dumplings.

7. Forming the dumplings: Over low heat, use a spoon dipped in water to scoop portions of the dumpling mixture and place them directly into the soup. Wait a few moments to see if they break apart. If this happens, let the mixture sit for a few more minutes to firm up.

8. Final boiling: After adding all the dumplings, pour a cup of cold water over them and cover the pot with a lid. Boil the soup until the dumplings are cooked, about 10-15 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of a dumpling or cutting it in half.

9. Finishing the soup: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then add the chopped parsley or lovage for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions:

Tomato soup with dumplings is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of garlic toast or crunchy croutons. You can garnish it with a few fresh parsley or lovage leaves for an attractive look. Additionally, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the flavor even more.

Vegan option: If you desire a vegan version of this soup, you can replace the eggs in the dumplings with a mixture of water and ground flaxseeds or crushed tofu, and substitute the oil with a plant-based oil.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This tomato soup with dumplings is not only tasty but also healthy. It is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables, and tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants. A serving of soup can contain approximately 120-150 calories, depending on the amount of oil and ingredients used. It is an ideal choice for those looking to stay fit.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes provide a fresher taste, but make sure to peel them before pureeing.

2. What can I use instead of semolina for the dumplings?
You can try using cornmeal or rice flour for a gluten-free option.

3. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. The dumplings may become denser after being refrigerated, so it’s recommended to prepare them fresh.

4. What other recipes can this soup be combined with?
Tomato soup with dumplings can be served alongside a fresh green salad or with a grilled cheese sandwich. You can also pair the meal with a dry white wine, which will complement the soup's flavors.

Tomato soup with dumplings is more than just a recipe; it is a true culinary experience, full of flavors and memories. So don’t hesitate to try it and share this delicacy with your loved ones!