Italian Tomato Soup: Thermomix Recipe
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the world of delicious and easy-to-make Italian tomato soup using your Thermomix? This recipe is a game-changer, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you just crave a comforting bowl of goodness. Trust me; once you try this, you'll be making it repeatedly. Let's get started!
Why Thermomix is Your Best Friend for Tomato Soup
The Thermomix isn't just another kitchen appliance; it's your culinary sidekick. When it comes to making soup, the Thermomix shines. Its ability to chop, sauté, and blend all in one pot saves you time and minimizes cleanup. Plus, the consistent temperature control ensures your soup cooks perfectly every time. No more standing over the stove, constantly stirring! With Thermomix, you get consistent results, which is why it is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks.
Key Benefits of Using Thermomix:
- Efficiency: Chops, cooks, and blends in one device.
- Consistency: Precise temperature control for perfect results.
- Time-Saving: Frees you up to do other things while the soup cooks.
- Easy Cleanup: Fewer dishes to wash!
Ingredients for the Perfect Italian Tomato Soup
To make this amazing Italian tomato soup, you'll need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Remember, the better the ingredients, the better the soup! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 kg ripe tomatoes (fresh or canned, but fresh is always better!)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1-2 celery stalks, chopped
- 50 ml olive oil
- 700 ml vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, but highly recommended!)
Ingredient Spotlight:
- Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes. If using canned, go for whole peeled tomatoes in juice.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity richness to the soup.
- Vegetable Broth: Use a good quality broth, or make your own for the best flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work, fresh basil for garnish elevates the soup to another level.
Step-by-Step Thermomix Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a heartwarming Italian tomato soup using your Thermomix.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the Thermomix bowl. Chop for 5 seconds on Speed 5.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the olive oil and sauté for 5 minutes at 120°C on Speed 1.
- Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the Thermomix bowl.
- Cook the Soup: Cook for 20 minutes at 100°C on Speed 2.
- Blend the Soup: Blend the soup for 30 seconds, gradually increasing the speed from Speed 1 to Speed 8 until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids; hold the lid firmly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar to your preference.
- Serve: Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfection:
- Roast the Tomatoes: For an even deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the Thermomix. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and roast at 200°C for 20-25 minutes.
- Add a Touch of Cream: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it Vegan: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly and skip the Parmesan cheese.
Variations to Try
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment and customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations to try:
Creamy Tomato Soup
Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream after blending for a richer, creamier texture.
Spicy Tomato Soup
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce while cooking for a spicy kick.
Tomato and Basil Soup
Add a generous amount of fresh basil leaves to the Thermomix bowl during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an intense basil flavor.
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Add 1-2 roasted red peppers (from a jar or roasted yourself) to the Thermomix bowl along with the tomatoes for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Tomato and Lentil Soup
Add 1/2 cup of red lentils to the Thermomix bowl along with the tomatoes for a heartier, more filling soup. You may need to add more broth and adjust the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian tomato soup is delicious on its own, but it's even better when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup.
- Pasta: Serve as a sauce over your favorite pasta for a simple and satisfying meal.
- Gourmet Croutons: Add crunch and flavor with homemade or store-bought croutons.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious tomato soup.
- Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir every minute until heated through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a Thermomix, there are a few common mistakes you might encounter. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Over-Blending: Be careful not to over-blend the soup, as it can become gluey. Blend until smooth, but avoid blending for too long.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste the soup and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the soup. Use the best quality tomatoes, olive oil, and broth you can find.
- Forgetting to Degas: When blending hot liquids, always degas the Thermomix by gradually increasing the speed. This prevents the soup from splattering.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a simple, delicious, and authentic Italian tomato soup recipe made easy with your Thermomix. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a cozy weekend lunch. So gather your ingredients, fire up your Thermomix, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. Buon appetito!