Basic Tomato Soup

Introduction

History

Tomato soup has a rich history that dates back to the Aztecs in the 700s, but it became popular in Europe only after the tomato was introduced from the Americas in the 16th century. Initially considered poisonous, tomatoes eventually became a beloved ingredient. The first recorded tomato soup recipe was published in a cookbook in the early 19th century. Since then, it has evolved into various forms, from creamy versions to brothy ones, reflecting local tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor, roast the tomatoes, onions, and garlic before adding them to the pot. Use high-quality olive oil for sautéing to enhance the taste. If the soup is too acidic, a pinch of baking soda can neutralize it without needing extra sugar. Blending the soup creates a smooth texture, but you can leave it chunky if preferred. For a creamier consistency, blend some of the soup with the crème before mixing it back in.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Basic Tomato Soup hot, garnished with a dollop of crème legère, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a heartier meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the vegetables before adding them to the soup can deepen the flavors. Blending the soup until smooth is a common technique, but it can also be served chunky. Slow cooking on a low heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If crème legère is not available, substitute with heavy cream, yogurt, or a plant-based cream for a vegan option. Fresh basil can replace parsley for a different herbal note. Canned tomatoes can be used in place of fresh ones, especially when tomatoes are not in season.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened too much.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in a pre-warmed bowl with a swirl of crème and a sprig of parsley on top. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little olive oil and add a few croutons for crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Basic Tomato Soup with a crisp, green salad for a light meal or with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort food combination. A light-bodied red wine or a crisp white wine can complement the flavors of the soup beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Basic Tomato Soup contains approximately 100-150 calories, making it a light and healthy option for any meal.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Basic Tomato Soup contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the tomatoes and onions. The sugar content is minimal, especially if natural sugars are used for balancing acidity.

Fats

This soup is low in fats, with most coming from the olive oil used in sautéing. A single serving contains about 5-7 grams of fat, depending on the amount of olive oil and crème legère used.

Proteins

Tomato soup is not high in proteins, containing about 2-3 grams per serving. However, it can be paired with protein-rich sides or toppings to create a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. Onions and garlic also contribute beneficial nutrients, making this soup a good source of antioxidants and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe is naturally free from most common allergens, including gluten, nuts, and dairy (if a dairy-free crème is used). However, always check the labels of purchased ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, Basic Tomato Soup is a low-calorie, nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, minimal fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy and comforting meal.

Summary

The Basic Tomato Soup is a versatile, nutritious, and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. With its rich history and simple ingredients, it's a testament to the power of good food to bring people together. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the ways of the kitchen from my mother and grandmother. We lived in a small village in the countryside, where the fields were always abundant with fresh produce.

One summer day, my grandmother took me to the local farmer's market, where we came across a stall selling the most beautiful tomatoes I had ever seen. They were ripe and juicy, with a deep red color that seemed to beckon me closer. My grandmother picked up a few of the tomatoes and handed them to me, saying, "These will make the most delicious tomato soup you've ever tasted."

Excited at the prospect of learning a new recipe, I followed my grandmother back to our humble kitchen. She set to work, showing me how to peel and chop the tomatoes, and explaining the importance of using fresh ingredients in all my cooking. As the tomatoes simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with a rich, savory aroma, my grandmother began to share the story of how she had first learned to make tomato soup.

"It was many years ago, when I was just a young bride," she began. "I had never cooked much before, but I wanted to impress your grandfather with a homemade meal. I had heard about tomato soup from a neighbor, and decided to give it a try."

My grandmother went on to describe how she had visited the neighbor, a kind old woman who lived down the road, and asked for her recipe. The woman had welcomed her into her home, showing her how to make the soup from scratch, using fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a few simple herbs and spices.

"I was amazed at how easy it was to make," my grandmother said, a twinkle in her eye. "And when I served it to your grandfather that evening, he declared it the best tomato soup he had ever tasted."

As the soup simmered on the stove, my grandmother continued to share her memories of learning to cook. She told me about the recipes she had collected over the years, from friends and family, and from her own experiments in the kitchen. Each recipe held a special place in her heart, a connection to the past that brought her joy and comfort in the present.

When the tomato soup was finally ready, my grandmother ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh basil from our garden. We sat down at the table together, savoring the warm, comforting flavors of the soup, and sharing stories of our own culinary adventures.

From that day on, tomato soup became a staple in our household, a dish that we would often make together, using the freshest ingredients we could find. My grandmother's recipe was simple and straightforward, but it held a magic that could only come from years of experience and love for the craft of cooking.

As I grew older and ventured out into the world on my own, I carried my grandmother's recipe with me, sharing it with friends and loved ones who were always eager to taste a bit of home. And though my grandmother is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in every batch of tomato soup I make, reminding me of the joy and connection that good food can bring to our lives.

So whenever I find myself in need of comfort or a taste of nostalgia, I turn to my grandmother's recipe for basic tomato soup. And as I chop and simmer and stir, I can almost hear her voice guiding me through the steps, filling my kitchen with warmth and love, just as she did all those years ago.

Categories

| Soup Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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