Ingredients and Weight:
- 4 pounds ripe tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon basil
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the tomatoes: wash and remove the core. Slice each tomato into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil on medium heat. Add the chopped onions and crushed garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add the tomato slices to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to break down.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and add the salt, oregano, and basil. Stir well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the soup has a rich flavor and the tomatoes are fully cooked.
- Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. Return the pureed soup back to the pot and reheat if necessary.
- Adjust seasoning, adding more salt if needed. Serve hot with desired toppings like basil leaves or parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
Calories: 98 kcal
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 3g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and flavorful tomato base with a smooth texture.
- Can be served as a starter or a light meal with bread or crackers.
- Easy to customize with different toppings and flavors.
User Comments:
- "This tomato soup is so comforting and tastes just like home."
- "The blend of flavors is perfect, just the right amount of salt and herbs."
- "Great as a starter for a fancy dinner party."
- "Love how creamy and smooth this soup is."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. If possible, choose organic tomatoes for a more natural flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference. Some people might prefer a stronger flavor of oregano or basil, while others might prefer less salt. Start with smaller amounts and add more if needed during the final stages of cooking.