Tomato Soup

Tomato Soup is one of the most common and favorite soups of all. There are many versions and combinations of this soup but for this recipe I am sharing a healthier version using all fresh ingredients. This soup is low-fat and healthy yet creamy and thick.  How? with the addition of secret ingredient - potato. Yes!! add a boiled potato to your soup to get a thick and creamy soup. I have used some tomato paste to get a rich and deep soup color but that's completely optional and you can only stick to the fresh ingredients.

This soup serves as the perfect snack or starter/appetizer.  Add a side of cheese sandwich/toast with this soup bowl and there you have a nice warm cozy dinner.  If you love basil tomato combination then try the Tomato Basil Soup recipe too. 

Now to the recipe... 

Ingredients: 
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic finely sliced
1/2 cup of finely chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped carrots
4 medium sized tomatoes chopped (approx 3 cups of chopped tomatoes)
1 small potato boiled and chopped
1 tsp red chilli powder (or to taste)
1 tbsp of tomato paste 
salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp sugar (optional)
3-4 cups of water

For serving: 
Cream 
Croutons 

Method: 

In a large vessel heat oil and once hot add the garlic and onions and saute for couple of mins. Then add the celery and carrots and cook for about 5 mins. 

Next add the tomatoes,potato, salt pepper and 2 cups of water. Mix everything well. Cover and simmer on medium heat (stirring intermittently) till the  mixture has reduced & tomatoes, carrots and celery are completely cooked (you should be able to mash them using your spoon). Turn off the gas and allow this mixture to cool slightly. 

Now using a hand bender or regular blender blend till you get a smooth puree. Add water if required. Then using a strainer strain the puree. 

Transfer the smooth puree back into the pot and add the red chilli powder and tomato paste and adjust seasoning if required. Adjust the soup consistency by adding as much water as required. Bring it to boil.

Notes: 

• Based on how thick you like your soup add more/less water and adjust.
• The sourness of tomatoes varies. The addition of potato should reduce some but if you still find the soup too sour add some sugar to cut the sourness. 

That's it. Our tangy Tomato Soup is ready, Garnish with some cream and croutons and serve it hot! Enjoy!!

Stay Healthy!!
Shweta