Creamy Tomato and Pepper Soup

This delicious creamy tomato and pepper soup is a delightful fusion of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and creamy cheese. The rich flavors of tomatoes and red peppers blend harmoniously, providing a comforting and hearty meal. This soup is incredibly versatile, perfect for a light lunch, a starter, or even a satisfying dinner. It is easy to prepare with simple ingredients and can be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary needs. The addition of pork adds depth to the flavor, making it more substantial for those who prefer a meatier dish. With a creamy texture and a hint of spice, this soup is a favorite for those cold, cozy days at home. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. It's not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a healthy dose of vegetables. The recipe allows room for creativity, so you can experiment with spices and herbs to suit your palate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 ripe tomatoes
1 red bell pepper
1 small potato
2 onions
200 g pork ham
Fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cheese with tomatoes and peppers
4 garlic cloves

Preparation Time

40 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Veggies: Start by finely chopping one onion. Heat a pan with some oil and sauté the onion until translucent.
Cook the Peppers: Add the chopped red bell pepper to the pan with the onion and sauté over high heat for about 5 minutes, until the pepper softens.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed onion and pepper to a pot. Add chopped tomatoes, diced potato, minced garlic, fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer: Add a small amount of water to the pot. Cover and cook on low heat until the vegetables are tender and start to break down.
Blend for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Stir in the fresh cheese with tomatoes and peppers, mixing well until fully incorporated.
Prepare the Meat: Chop the second onion finely and sauté in a separate pan until golden brown.
Cook the Pork: Add the pork ham (chopped or ground) to the pan with the browned onion. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the meat is tender.
Serve the Soup: Pour the creamy soup into bowls and top with the cooked pork mixture.
Finishing Touches: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
Enjoy: Serve immediately with some crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side. Enjoy your meal!

Tips

Substitution: You can substitute pork with chicken or turkey for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using cooked lentils or beans.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Thickness: Adjust the soup's thickness by adding more or less water at the simmering stage.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 15g
Fats: 10g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace the fresh cheese with a plant-based alternative and the pork with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Herbal Twist: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a light salad or a slice of garlic bread.
Garnishes: Top with freshly grated parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.

Best Places

La Souperie - Renowned for its delicious soups and cozy atmosphere. Location: 10 Rue de la Chaussée-d'Antin, Paris, France.
Soup Kitchen - Known for a wide variety of hearty soups and friendly service. Location: 2 Ladbroke Grove, London, UK.
Soup Zone - Offers a great selection of soups and fresh bread. Location: 55 Water St., New York City, USA.
Broth & Bowl - Famous for its creative soup recipes and welcoming vibe. Location: 23 High St., Sydney, Australia.
Zupa House - Popular spot for traditional and contemporary soups. Location: Długa 24, Kraków, Poland.
Soup & Bread - Serves comforting and freshly made soups. Location: 112 Wellington St., Toronto, Canada.
Potage - Offers gourmet soups with a modern twist. Location: 47 Mitchell St., Glasgow, Scotland.
The Soup Spoon - Specializes in diverse soup flavors from around the world. Location: 91 Bencoolen St., Singapore.
Souperstar - Known for organic ingredients and healthy options. Location: 5 Tongzhi St., Taipei, Taiwan.
Bowl & Broth - Offers a variety of exotic and traditional soups. Location: 18 Váci utca, Budapest, Hungary.