Cozy up with our Warmly Spiced Tomato and Red Pepper Soup! This comforting dish blends the natural sweetness of red peppers with the rich depth of tomatoes, all enlivened by a gentle medley of spices. It's a perfect bowl of warmth for chilly evenings or a soothing lunch, combining health and taste in every spoonful.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fiber: 4 g
Ingredients
- 4 large red bell peppers, chopped
- 400 g (0.88 lbs or 14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 ml (17 fl oz) vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cream and fresh basil for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add Peppers: Add chopped red bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in canned tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in Broth: Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée the soup until smooth.
- Serve: Return the soup to the pot, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot. Garnish with cream and fresh basil if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Roasting Option: For a deeper flavor, roast the red peppers in the oven before adding them to the soup.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more broth if it's too thick.
- Garnish Variations: Experiment with different garnishes like croutons, grated cheese, or a drizzle of pesto.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day.
Is this soup vegan?
Yes, it is vegan. Just skip the cream garnish or use a vegan alternative.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. It freezes well for up to 3 months.