How to Make French Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup

French Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of fresh ingredients and rustic cooking. This delightful soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a fancy meal. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide on how to make this comforting soup at home.

Ingredients

To make a delicious French Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 2 red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered. Once done, remove them from the oven and cover the peppers with a clean kitchen towel to steam for 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel off the skin.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Peel the roasted red peppers and chop them into pieces. Add the chopped tomatoes and roasted peppers to the pot with onions and garlic. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper, cooking for 5 more minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour the vegetable broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender. Remember to let it cool slightly before blending and ensure the lid is slightly ajar to prevent steam from building up.

Step 6: Final Seasoning & Serving

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• If you want a creamier soup, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after blending.

This French Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup is a crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal that is sure to please everyone at the table!