Tomato and Pimento Soup

Egyptian Tomato and Pimento Soup Recipe

Region / culture: Egypt | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomato and Pimento Soup is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party. This soup is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant color and rich taste.

History

Tomato and Pimento Soup has its origins in Mediterranean cuisine, where tomatoes and pimientos are commonly used in a variety of dishes. The combination of these two ingredients creates a unique flavor profile that is both tangy and sweet, making it a popular choice for soups and sauces.

Ingredients

50 g (2 oz) of butter
1 finely chopped onion
2 crashed cloves of garlic
wine
400 g (14 oz) can of pimientos, drained, rinsed and chopped
230 g (8 oz) can of chopped tomatoes
600 ml (1 pt) of chicken stock, salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp of snipped chives
croutons
2 slices of white bread, crusts removed
2 tbsp of oil

How to prepare

Melt half of the butter in a pan. Add the onion and 1 garlic clove, and cook until soft.
Add the pimientos and tomatoes, cover, and cook gently for 10 minutes.
Add the wine, cook for 5 minutes, then add the stock and cook for another 5 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Return the soup to the pan, season, and heat through.
To make the croutons, cut the bread into small cubes. Heat the remaining butter and oil in a frying pan, then fry the bread cubes until golden. Drain on kitchen paper.
Transfer the soup to individual bowls and garnish with the chives and croutons before serving.

Variations

Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a creamier texture.
Roast the tomatoes and pimientos before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions and garlic until they are soft and translucent to bring out their flavors.

- Pureeing the soup in a blender or food processor will give it a smooth and creamy texture.

- Garnishing the soup with chives and homemade croutons adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato and Pimento Soup as a starter with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Saute the onions and garlic until soft and translucent.

- Puree the soup in a blender or food processor until smooth.

- Garnish with chives and homemade croutons before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of the croutons.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato and Pimento Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tomato and Pimento Soup in individual bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of chives, and a few croutons for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Tomato and Pimento Soup with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Tomato and Pimento Soup 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

Each serving of Tomato and Pimento Soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tomato and Pimento Soup contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tomato and Pimento Soup contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Tomato and Pimento Soup contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato and Pimento Soup is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and gluten (bread), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Tomato and Pimento Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is relatively low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

Tomato and Pimento Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Tomato and Pimento Soup. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I was browsing through the local farmers market in search of fresh ingredients for dinner. As I made my way through the bustling crowds, I noticed a small stand tucked away in the corner, with baskets overflowing with ripe tomatoes and vibrant red pimentos.

Intrigued, I approached the stand and struck up a conversation with the elderly woman manning it. She introduced herself as Mrs. Jenkins and explained that she was a retired chef who had spent years perfecting her recipes. She kindly offered me a taste of her Tomato and Pimento Soup, and with one spoonful, I was hooked.

The soup was a beautiful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, with just the right amount of kick from the pimentos. Mrs. Jenkins shared that the key to the soup's depth of flavor was in roasting the tomatoes and pimentos before simmering them with aromatic herbs and spices. My taste buds danced with delight as I savored each spoonful, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this soup myself.

Mrs. Jenkins saw the excitement in my eyes and graciously offered to teach me her recipe. We spent the afternoon together in her cozy kitchen, as she guided me through the steps, sharing tips and tricks along the way. I watched in awe as she expertly chopped and sautéed, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that with the precision of a master chef.

As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, Mrs. Jenkins regaled me with stories of her culinary adventures. She had traveled the world, learning new recipes and techniques from chefs of all backgrounds. Each dish she had mastered held a special place in her heart, but the Tomato and Pimento Soup was her crowning achievement.

I listened intently, soaking up every word like a sponge, eager to absorb Mrs. Jenkins' wealth of knowledge. She had a way of making even the most complex recipes seem approachable, breaking them down into simple steps that anyone could follow. I felt a sense of pride as I stirred the pot, knowing that I was on the cusp of creating something truly special.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. Mrs. Jenkins ladled the steaming soup into bowls, garnishing each one with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. I took my first spoonful, closing my eyes as the flavors danced on my tongue. It was perfect – just like Mrs. Jenkins had promised.

From that day on, Tomato and Pimento Soup became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I prepared it, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the invaluable gift she had given me – not just a recipe, but a passion for cooking that would last a lifetime.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Tomato and Pimento Soup on the stove, I can't help but smile at the memory of that fateful day at the farmers market. Mrs. Jenkins may have passed on, but her legacy lives on in every delicious spoonful of soup that I make. And for that, I am forever grateful.