Creamy Hot Tomato Soup

This creamy hot tomato soup is a delightful comfort food, perfect for any time of the year. With its rich blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, it creates a hearty yet refreshing dish that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul. The soup combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the earthy flavors of celery and carrots, finished with the aromatic touch of basil. It's not just a treat for vegetarians but can be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates a flavorful bowl of soup. Easy to prepare, this dish will warm you up on a chilly day or serve as a comforting meal paired with crusty bread. This versatile soup is ideal for a family dinner or an elegant first course at a dinner party. Enjoy the harmony of flavors, colors, and aromas as you indulge in every spoonful. This recipe promises not only a delicious meal but also a wonderful culinary experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g pumpkin
• 5 potatoes
• 2 carrots
• 1 can of canned tomatoes
• 1 celery stalk
• 1 handful of basil (dried or fresh)

Spices:

• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 pinch of pepper

Additional:

• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 natural broth cube

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering and measuring all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
2. Heat Water: Fill a pot with water to about one-third and set it on the stove to heat.
3. Chop Vegetables: While the water is heating, dice the pumpkin, potatoes, carrots, and celery stalk into small cubes for faster cooking.
4. Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped pumpkin, potatoes, carrots, and celery into the boiling water.
5. Season the Soup: Add a pinch of salt, a pinch of pepper, and the natural broth cube into the pot. Stir well to dissolve the cube completely.
6. Add Garlic: Crush the garlic cloves and add them to the pot for an added layer of flavor.
7. Simmer: Let the vegetables cook until they are soft and tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Add Canned Tomatoes: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the canned tomatoes and let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
9. Incorporate Basil: Add the handful of basil into the soup, mixing it thoroughly. Dried or fresh basil both work well, choose based on availability.
10. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth and creamy in texture.
11. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your preference.
12. Garnish: Decorate your soup with some fresh basil leaves before serving.
13. Presentation: Transfer the soup to individual bowls and serve warm for the best experience.

Tips

• For Creamier Texture: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk before blending for a richer consistency.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking for a hint of spice.
• Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth instead of a natural broth cube for a fully vegan soup.

Nutritions

Per Serving:

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 2g
• Carbs: 31g

Variations

• Keto Version: Use low-carb vegetables like cauliflower instead of potatoes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that all canned and packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Herbal Twist: Add thyme or oregano for a different herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Bread: Serve with freshly toasted bread or a slice of sourdough for a complete meal.
• Add a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Best Places

• The Soup Spoon - Known for its expansive selection of soups, including a must-try tomato variant. Location: Pacific Plaza, Singapore.
• Katz's Delicatessen - A renowned spot for its comforting soups and sandwiches. Location: 205 E Houston St, New York, USA.
• Tom's Kitchen - Offers expertly prepared soups in a cozy setting. Location: Somerset House, London, UK.
• La Bonne Soupe - Offers authentic French soups, rich in flavor. Location: 48 W 55th St, New York, USA.
• Zuppa - A dedicated soup café famed for creative flavors and combinations. Location: Via Federico Confalonieri, Milan, Italy.
• Deliciously Yours - Known for its wholesome homemade soups. Location: Grundrisse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• The Soup Peddler - A favorite local spot serving fresh, hearty soups. Location: 4631 Airport Blvd, Austin, Texas, USA.
• Mugs and Jugs - A popular spot serving a variety of hot soups perfect for a meal. Location: 541 The Circuit, Sydney, Australia.
• De Soupery - Offers vegan and gluten-free options on their soup menu. Location: Nieuwe Binnenweg 79, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
• Soup Culture - Unique for serving soups in edible bread bowls. Location: 1555 Brighton Rd, Brighton, UK.