Spicy Tomato Soup
I love soup because it's a unique combination of health food and comfort food – perfect when you want something light, but it's too cold for a salad. Perhaps that's why you find incredible soups wherever you go in the world.
I love soup because it's a unique combination of health food and comfort food – perfect when you want something light, but it's too cold for a salad. Perhaps that's why you find incredible soups wherever you go in the world.
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves crushed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbs olive oil
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 small red chilli seeds removed, chopped
- 1 tbs tomato paste
- 2 cans ardmona rich & thick classic tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red lentils rinsed
- 2 cups (500ml) salt-reduced chicken or vegetable stock
- natural yoghurt to serve
- Carbohydrate 21.1883349998414 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.505387499985453 g
- Fiber 9.27847501107865 g
- Protein 7.95867249993326 g
- Saturated Fat 0.06952124999965 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (69g)
- Sodium 5.24599999935787 mg
- Sugar 11.9098599887628 g
- Trans Fat 0.101963999993594 g
- Calories 119 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the oil in a large heavy-based saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add the onion and cook, stirring, for 3-4 minutes or until the onion is soft.
- Add the garlic, chilli, spices and tomato paste, and stir for a further minute.
- Add tomatoes, lentils and stock, and bring to the boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
- Puree the soup in a blender, in batches, until smooth (add 1/2 cup (125ml) water if soup is too thick).
- Return to the saucepan and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place over medium heat and stir until warmed through.
- Ladle soup among serving bowls and swirl in a spoonful of yoghurt to serve.
My Comforting Spicy Tomato Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a challenge. But there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul after a long day. This spicy tomato soup has become a staple in my kitchen, a quick and easy recipe that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition. The vibrant red color alone brightens up even the dreariest evening, and the comforting warmth is just what I need to unwind. I love that it’s easily adaptable too – sometimes I add a little extra chili for a fiery kick, other times I keep it milder for the kids. The best part? The whole family loves it!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It comes together quickly, using readily available ingredients. No fancy techniques or hours of simmering are required; just a few simple steps and you'll have a delicious, nutritious soup ready in under half an hour. Perfect for weeknight dinners when time is precious. I often double the recipe, making enough for leftovers the next day – a perfect lunch for my hectic schedule. The creamy texture, achieved by blending the soup until smooth, is heavenly. And the subtle spice, provided by a blend of cumin and coriander, adds a depth of flavor that elevates this soup beyond the ordinary. It's hearty enough to be a complete meal, yet light enough not to weigh me down.
I've experimented with variations over time, sometimes swapping chicken stock for vegetable stock to make it entirely vegetarian. Other times, I've added a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra creaminess – but the simple yogurt swirl is my personal favorite. It adds a delightful tang that cuts through the richness of the tomatoes. I’ve also tried adding different vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for added nutrition and a bit of sweetness, but honestly, the classic simplicity of the original recipe is hard to beat. This soup truly embodies my philosophy of cooking: delicious, healthy, and easy to make, even for a busy professional like myself. It’s become a symbol of comfort and well-being in my life, a warm hug in a bowl.
Beyond the Recipe: A Reflection on Comfort Food
For me, this spicy tomato soup is more than just a meal; it's a symbol of comfort and self-care. In the rush of daily life, taking time to prepare a nourishing meal is a way of showing myself kindness and appreciation. The act of cooking, the aroma filling the kitchen, the satisfaction of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones – these are simple joys that often get overlooked. Yet, they are so crucial in maintaining a balanced and happy life. This soup represents that balance perfectly – a quick and easy preparation, healthy ingredients, and a burst of flavor that revitalizes both body and spirit.
I often find myself reflecting on the importance of simple pleasures like this as I prepare the soup. It’s a mindful activity, a chance to slow down and connect with the present moment. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the gentle simmering on the stove – these small actions create a sense of calm and focus amidst the chaos of everyday life. And the final product, that warm bowl of soup, becomes a tangible representation of that tranquility. It’s a reminder to myself, and to my family, that even amidst the pressures of modern life, we can still find moments of peace and nourishment.
Adapting the Recipe to Your Needs
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. The base recipe is simple, allowing you to easily adapt it to your tastes and preferences. If you like things spicier, add a jalapeño or some extra chili flakes. If you're not a fan of lentils, you can easily omit them without significantly affecting the flavor. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique twist. For example, a dash of smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky flavor, while a sprig of fresh thyme adds a hint of earthiness.
The soup is also incredibly adaptable to dietary needs. As mentioned before, vegetable stock can easily replace chicken stock to make it vegetarian. For a vegan option, use coconut milk instead of yogurt as a garnish. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a truly customizable culinary experience. I encourage you to experiment and make it your own. The most important thing is that you enjoy the process and the final result. Happy cooking!
