Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup

Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup Recipe - Authentic & Flavorful

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for hot summer days. The combination of spices and yogurt gives it a unique and tangy flavor that is sure to impress your taste buds.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Indian cuisine, where spices are used to enhance the flavor of dishes. The addition of yogurt adds a creamy texture and a hint of tanginess to the soup, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp ground cumin
0.25 tsp cayenne
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
0.25 tsp salt
1 (28 oz (794 g)) can whole peeled tomatoes, with juices
1.33 cup low-fat or non-fat plain yogurt
1 tbsp fresh lime juice

How to prepare

In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
Add cardamom, cumin, and cayenne; cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Stir in onion, garlic, and salt; reduce the heat to medium and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
Add tomatoes and their juices, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes.
Remove from the heat.
Cool briefly and then stir in yogurt and lime juice.
Transfer half of the tomato mixture to a blender and puree until smooth; pour into a large bowl.
Repeat with the remaining tomato mixture; pour into the bowl.
Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes.
Serve chilled.

Variations

Add a pinch of garam masala for an extra layer of flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of yogurt for a dairy-free version.
Garnish with roasted chickpeas or croutons for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the spices in oil before adding the other ingredients to release their flavors.

- Be sure to cool the soup before blending it to avoid splattering hot liquid.

- For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve before chilling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. Pair it with some warm naan bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a blender to puree the soup for a smooth and creamy texture.

- Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use diced tomatoes instead of whole peeled tomatoes.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for regular yogurt for a thicker consistency.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in individual bowls garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a light and refreshing salad or a side of grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 18g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 10g

Fats

Total Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20%

Vitamin C: 30%

Calcium: 15%

Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains dairy (yogurt)

Summary

This Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of fiber and protein, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

This Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for summer. With a blend of spices, yogurt, and fresh tomatoes, it is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your taste buds. Enjoy this soup chilled for a refreshing and light meal option.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup. It was a hot summer day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my mother. As soon as I saw the vibrant red soup garnished with fresh herbs and spices, I knew I had to try it.

The recipe called for ripe tomatoes, fragrant spices like cumin and coriander, and a touch of yogurt to add a creamy texture. It seemed like the perfect dish to cool off on a scorching day, and I couldn't wait to get started.

I decided to make the soup for a family gathering that weekend. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen, following the recipe carefully. As the tomatoes simmered on the stove, the aroma of the spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the soup was ready, I carefully poured it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The vibrant colors and fragrant aroma were a feast for the senses, and I couldn't wait for my family to try it.

As we sat down to eat, the first spoonful of soup brought a chorus of "mmms" and "ahhs" from my family. The flavors were bold and bright, with a gentle kick of heat from the spices. The chilled soup was a refreshing change from the usual hot dishes we were used to, and everyone couldn't get enough.

As we finished our meal, my family asked me where I had learned to make such a delicious soup. I smiled and told them about the old cookbook I had found and how the recipe had caught my eye. They were impressed by my culinary skills and encouraged me to keep experimenting with new dishes.

Over the years, I have made the Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup many times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon for a tangy kick, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. No matter how I make it, the soup always brings back memories of that hot summer day when I first discovered the recipe.

I like to think that each dish has a story behind it, whether it's a family recipe passed down through generations or a new discovery in an old cookbook. Cooking is not just about following instructions, but about creativity and imagination, about making something delicious out of simple ingredients.

And so, as I sit here reminiscing about that first bowl of Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup, I am grateful for the joy that cooking has brought me over the years. It's not just about feeding my family or impressing my friends, but about the joy of creation, of bringing together flavors and memories in a single dish.

As I close my eyes, I can almost taste the soup on my tongue, the burst of tomato and spices dancing on my palate. And I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of a good meal shared with loved ones, and the memories that will linger long after the last spoonful is gone.