Tomato soup with winter root vegetables

Tomato Soup with Winter Root Vegetables

Here’s a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for those cooler spring days when your soul craves warm, vibrant flavors. Tomato soup with root vegetables is a true example of "comfort food," combining the rich taste of tomatoes with the sweetness of seasonal vegetables. This soup is not only nutritious but also an excellent way to use up the ingredients you have on hand. Let’s dive into making this soup!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 1 large carrot
- 1 kohlrabi
- 1/2 celery root
- 1 parsley root
- 1 large onion
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 liter of tomato juice (preferably homemade)
- 1.5 liters of water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- A handful of homemade noodles
- Salt to taste

The Story Behind the Recipe
Tomato soup is a classic recipe beloved in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary traditions. It not only offers a burst of flavors but is also a healthy choice, packed with vitamins thanks to its nutrient-rich ingredients. This version with root vegetables not only enriches the soup with texture and sweetness but transforms a simple recipe into a true feast.

Step-by-Step for a Perfect Soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling all the vegetables. Cut the carrot, kohlrabi, celery root, and parsley root into thin sticks (julienne). This not only enhances presentation but also helps the vegetables cook evenly. Chop the onion finely.

2. Heating the oil: In a 3-liter pot, add the 4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also healthy fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables.

3. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Be careful not to burn it, as this can affect the final taste of the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: Place the cut vegetables into the pot. Sauté them together with the onion for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will intensify the flavors and contribute to a richer soup.

5. Boiling the soup: Add the 1.5 liters of water and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Sprinkle salt to taste. Increase the heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the vegetables become tender.

6. Adding the noodles: Towards the end of the cooking time, add a handful of homemade noodles. This step will turn the soup into a heartier dish, perfect for a comforting meal.

7. Finishing the soup: Finally, add the tomato juice. It’s already cooked, so there’s no need to cook it too long. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

Serving Suggestions
This soup is best served hot, ideally accompanied by a slice of toasted bread or flavored croutons. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil on top or even sprinkle some grated Parmesan for added flavor. A fresh salad on the side will perfectly complement the meal.

Delicious Variations
- Adding fresh herbs: If you have some on hand, add a few fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh aroma.
- Spicy version: If you enjoy heat, you can add a chopped chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Vegetarian soup: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can also make a vegan version by omitting any cheese or dairy products.

Nutritional Benefits
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
- Root vegetables are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (like vitamin C), and minerals (like potassium), essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought tomato juice?
Absolutely! Just make sure to choose a quality tomato juice without additives or added sugars.

Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or potatoes.

How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use; just make sure to keep it in a suitable freezer container.

In conclusion, tomato soup with winter root vegetables is not just a nourishing and comforting meal, but also an opportunity to explore the simple flavors of the kitchen. With each spoonful, you’ll feel the warmth and love that goes into making this soup. So, embrace the spring season with every bowl of soup you savor!