Tomato Basil Soup

A healthy twist to a classic recipe !
 
 
This recipe has been pending for long. Many of you have asked for the recipe and my sincere apologies for being this late in posting. Before I start with the recipe here are a few questions which frequently come to mind :

 

How to counter the tang of tomatoes without adding cream or sugar?
 
I avoid using any of these because I want to enjoy the pure flavors. So I add bell peppers, celery and carrots and roast them in a few drops of oil. Roasting the veggies brings out their real flavors which not only adds a new dimension to this classic recipe but also helps in masking the piquant taste of tomatoes.
 
 
 
IMG_20140323_150402 

 

How to make it healthier so that you can have it frequently ?
 
Most of the tomato basil soups are rich and creamy. If you  are looking for a healthier option which you can incorporate in your weekly menu, skip the cream and canned tomatoes. Just use the freshest ingredients and make a lighter version of this famous soup which is not just healthier but quicker to make too.

 

I had it for lunch today with my favorite Avocado sandwich and papaya salad. Feeling great after such a happy and healthy lunch :))
Course: Appetizer
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ready In : 40 minutes
Serves : 4
Ingredients

 

1 tsp olive oil
1/2 medium bell pepper
2 medium carrots
2 celery stalks
3 large tomatoes
1 flake medium garlic
1 inch cinnamon stick
1/4 inch anistar
1 basil leaf, fresh or 1/2 tsp basil powder
4 cups water
salt and black pepper as per taste
Directions

 

Wash all the vegetables and chop them roughly.
 
 
 IMG_20140323_190309
 
 
Heat oil in a pressure cooker, add  cinnamon and anistar. Now add chopped bell peppers, carrots, garlic and celery. Roast them for 2-3 minutes on high flame.
 
 
 IMG_20140323_190836
 
 
Add chopped tomatoes and saute all the vegetables for about 3 minutes on high flame.
 
 
 IMG_20140323_191047
 
 
Add 4 cups of water and the basil leaf / powder. Pressure cook to release steam once.
 
 
 IMG_20140323_191623
 
 
Once the whistle has blown, let the rest of steam release naturally ( 20 minutes approx. )

 

Puree the soup mixture. You can have it as such or may filter the puree to enjoy it as a clear soup.
 
 
 IMG_20140323_191756
 
 

 

Serving Suggestions

 

Tomato soup is best  enjoyed with subs, wraps, sandwiches or salads. Make it on a gloomy winter evening and see how it elevates your happy hormones:))
 
 
 
IMG_20140325_123818 
 

 

Health Benefits

 

This soup has no artificial sweeteners and is devoid of any cream. So you can have it daily and get all the minerals and vitamins from the veggies.

6 Comments

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  5. I've been looking for a lighter tomato soup, thanks Monica

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