Tomato soup with roasted garlic and croutons

Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup with Croutons

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Who can resist a warm, flavorful, and comforting soup? Roasted garlic tomato soup with croutons is a perfect choice for a quick dinner or a delicious lunch. This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the intense flavor of roasted garlic, delivering a burst of taste that will delight any palate.

Brief History
Tomato soup has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a beloved dish worldwide. Garlic, on the other hand, has been a revered ingredient for centuries, appreciated not only for its distinctive flavor but also for its nutritional benefits. The combination of these simple ingredients has led to the creation of a delicious and healthy soup that can be enjoyed in both cold months and warm days, served hot or cold.

Ingredients:
- 1 head of garlic
- 50 ml basil-flavored olive oil (or plain if you don't have it)
- 50 g flour
- 1 liter tomato broth/paste/juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, half finely chopped, the rest reserved for garnish
- 300-400 g stale bread, torn into pieces

Preparation:
1. Preparing the roasted garlic: Preheat the oven to 190°C. Wrap the head of garlic in aluminum foil, ensuring it is well-covered. Place it on a baking tray and roast for 30-40 minutes until the inside is soft and fragrant. This is an essential step, as roasted garlic has a sweet and complex flavor that will transform the soup.

2. Preparing the croutons: While the garlic is roasting, prepare the croutons. Place the bread pieces on a baking tray and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. These will add a pleasant texture to the soup and make it more satisfying.

3. Creating the soup base: In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the flour. This step will help thicken the soup and give it a silky texture.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Pour the tomato broth/paste/juice into the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow it to simmer, stirring until the soup thickens slightly.

5. Including the roasted garlic: Once the garlic has cooled slightly, squeeze the cloves out of their skins and add them to the soup. Add the sea salt, brown sugar, and chopped basil leaves. Mix well, allowing the flavors to combine. Let the soup come to a boil, then remove it from heat.

6. Serving: Divide the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and sprinkling the croutons on top. Enjoy hot, letting each spoonful indulge your senses!

Practical Tips:
- Roasted garlic: If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding other herbs like thyme or oregano while roasting the garlic.
- Croutons: For extra flavor, season the croutons with garlic powder or grated parmesan before baking.
- Vegan option: This soup is already vegan, but make sure the olive oil is high quality and the tomatoes are additive-free.
- Delicious pairings: Tomato soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This roasted garlic tomato soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which helps protect the skin and heart. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A serving of soup contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the amount of oil and bread used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of broth?
- Sure! Use about 1.5 kg of ripe, peeled, and chopped tomatoes. They will add a wonderful freshness to the soup.

2. How can I turn this soup into a main dish?
- You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots, or even beans to boost the protein content.

3. Is it possible to freeze the soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezing containers.

I conclude this recipe with a personal thought: every soup I prepare reminds me of the moments spent around the table with loved ones. So, don’t forget to share this delicious soup with family and friends. Cooking is, after all, a form of love!