Homemade Tomato Soup with a healthy twist! Made from fresh tomatoes and carrots, and boosted with nourishing chicken bone broth. It's a bowl of goodness, bursting with flavour and wholesome ingredients.
When I was browsing for a homemade tomato soup recipe, I noticed that most of them called for canned tomatoes. However, I had a craving for the freshness of ripe, juicy tomatoes and wanted to add some hidden vegetables without compromising on flavour.
That's when I decided to add carrots to the mix. It added sweetness to the soup and elevated the flavour. Carrots are also known for their starchy nature. This addition not only enhances the texture but also makes the soup more filling, especially if you're enjoying it as the main course of your meal.
The carrots add a lovely orange colour to the soup, making it look vibrant and inviting. As the carrots and tomatoes cook, the colour becomes richer, giving the soup a warm and comforting appearance that's sure to please the eyes as well as the taste buds.
I made some tweaks to the traditional tomato soup recipe. Instead of using sugar, I opted for maple syrup to cut down on the raw sugar content. This swap is perfect for parents, especially when serving the soup to children. Additionally, the inclusion of hidden veggies adds extra nutrition, making it a great choice for picky eaters.
Tomatoes: are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. They add a tangy sweetness and a depth of flavour to the soup while providing immune support and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Carrots: are packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This nutrient is essential for eye health and may also boost immune function. Carrots contribute a natural sweetness to the soup and enhance its colour, while also providing a dose of dietary fibre for digestive health.
Chicken Bone Broth: is a source of collagen, gelatin, and essential amino acids. It supports gut health, and joint health, and may even improve skin elasticity. In the soup, the chicken bone broth adds a savoury depth of flavour and contributes to its overall richness, making it more satisfying and nourishing.
Onion and Garlic: boast immune-boosting properties and are loaded with antioxidants, making them well-known for their health benefits. They add layers of savoury complexity to the soup's flavour profile, enhancing its overall taste and aroma while providing potential health benefits such as reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.
Olive Oil: is a heart-healthy fat rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. It adds richness to the soup and helps to carry the flavours of the other ingredients. Additionally, olive oil may offer various health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and inflammation.
Maple Syrup: offers more than just sweetness in small quantities—it also supplies trace minerals and antioxidants. It adds a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavour.
Cilantro: is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It adds a fresh and vibrant flavour to the soup, complementing the other ingredients.
Butter: contributes richness and creaminess to the soup, enhancing its texture and mouthfeel. While it should be used in moderation due to its high saturated fat content, butter adds flavour and satiety to the dish.
Ginger: is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavour to the soup while potentially providing digestive support and immune-boosting benefits.
So essentially, this soup goes beyond mere comfort food—it's a nutritious meal in itself. By swapping sugar for maple syrup, we've not only reduced the raw sugar content but also enhanced the flavour.
This makes it a great option for parents serving it to kids. Plus, sneaking in those hidden veggies boosts nutrition and ensures even picky eaters get essential vitamins. Whether you're craving comfort or nourishment, this tomato soup delivers both in every spoonful.
Experience the comforting embrace of our Silky Smooth Tomato Soup, a perfected classic recipe bursting with the vibrant flavours of ripe tomatoes, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs.
With each spoonful, savour the velvety texture and rich depth of flavour, crafted to warm your soul on even the chilliest of days. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying starter or a nourishing main, this homemade delight promises to elevate your dining experience with every spoonful.
In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the chopped carrots to the pot and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
Quarter the tomatoes and add them to the pot along with the mixed spices. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
Stir in the tomato paste, maple syrup, cilantro, and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.
Once the soup has cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, using a hand blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
Serve the soup warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
Thank you for cooking with The Well-Fed Family!