Vegetarian Heart-Nourishing Tomato Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
A handful of fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon flaxseed oil (to serve)
Instructions:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the diced tomatoes, red bell pepper, and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onion mixture.
Season the Soup:
Sprinkle the turmeric and dried basil over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are very tender.
Blend the Soup:
Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot to your desired consistency. You can also transfer the soup to a blender to puree and then return it to the pot.
Final Touches:
Before serving, stir in a tablespoon of flaxseed oil for an extra heart-healthy boost. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil.
Health Benefits:
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that is highly beneficial for heart health. Garlic and turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and help in reducing cholesterol levels.
Flaxseed oil adds omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. This warm, comforting soup not only nourishes the heart but also delights the palate with its rich flavours and vibrant colours.
