Italian Inspired Tomato Soup

This Italian-inspired tomato soup offers a rich blend of flavors perfect for warming your soul on a chilly day. With the robust taste of ripe tomatoes and a touch of spicy heat, it's a delightful culinary experience. The soup combines aromatic herbs and spices, creating a fragrant and inviting dish. Designed to be hearty and satisfying, it can be served as a main course or a starter. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy meal at home, this soup is both comforting and refreshing. It's a perfect way to showcase fresh and preserved ingredients, bringing the vibrant taste of Italian cuisine to your table. Simple yet flavorful, this recipe invites you to enjoy the classic taste of tomatoes in a new and exciting way. With a few simple steps, you can transform everyday ingredients into a dish that's both impressive and delicious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 800 g canned tomatoes (peeled)
• 3 medium onions
• 5-6 cloves garlic
• 100 g baking margarine
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 2 liters tomato juice

Herbs and Spices:

• Fresh dill
• Fresh parsley
• Salt
• Sugar
• Ground black pepper
• Tabasco or Louisiana hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes (Prep and Cook)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Broth: Bring 1-1.5 liters of beef broth to a boil, or prepare from bouillon cubes if desired.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt 100 g of margarine. Add onions, sliced into quarter rings, and finely chopped garlic from 4 cloves. Include chopped dill and parsley stems. Sauté until golden.
3. Season the Base: Stir in 1.5 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tablespoon of salt. Add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir continuously to incorporate.
4. Add Vegetables: Once the base mixture becomes homogeneous, add canned tomatoes and bell pepper cut into cubes. Sauté for about 20 minutes.
5. Combine Liquids: Pour the pre-boiled beef broth and tomato juice into the pot, stirring well to combine.
6. Simmer: Allow the soup to reach a gentle boil. Add freshly chopped dill and parsley leaves along with coarsely chopped remaining garlic.
7. Adjust Spice: Add Tabasco or Louisiana hot sauce to taste. Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Finish and Rest: Remove the soup from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to blend flavors.
9. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish.
10. Enjoy: Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this delightful Italian-inspired soup. Bon appétit!

Tips

• For a creamier texture, blend the soup with a hand blender before serving.
• Substitute sugar with honey for a healthier touch.
• Add a touch of lemon juice for added freshness.
• Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a more natural taste.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbs: 20g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Spicy: Increase the amount of Tabasco or add red pepper flakes.
• Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh basil or shredded parmesan for added flair.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner.

Best Places

1. Osteria Francescana - Experience modern Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
2. Trattoria da Enzo al 29 - Offers classic Italian comfort food with a twist. Location: Via dei Vascellari, 29, Rome, Italy.
3. Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia - Blend of tradition and innovation in Italian dishes. Location: Via Privata Raimondo Montecuccoli, 6, Milan, Italy.
4. Da Fiore - Intimate setting with a focus on Venetian flavors. Location: Calle del Scaleter, 2202, Venice, Italy.
5. La Pergola - Offers panoramic views and a refined menu. Location: Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, Rome, Italy.
6. Le Calandre - Creative Italian cuisine in a modern atmosphere. Location: Via Liguria, 1, Rubano, Italy.
7. Café di Stasio - A Melbourne institution known for its classic Italian dishes. Location: 31 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, Australia.
8. Café Assorti - Specializes in Italian dishes with authentic flavors. Location: 45 Tole Bi Street, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
9. Trattoria Monti - Cozy restaurant favored by locals for home-style meals. Location: Via di San Vito, 13/A, Rome, Italy.
10. Osteria dell'Enoteca - Modern twist on traditional cuisine with a great wine selection. Location: Via Romana, 70, Florence, Italy.