Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe

Tomato carrot apple soup, also known as carrot tomato soup recipe, is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and tangy apples. This homemade soup is not only easy to make but also perfect for various occasions. With its vibrant colors and comforting flavors, it’s a great choice for a cozy dinner or a light appetizer before a meal. The combination of tomatoes, carrots, and apples creates a unique taste that stands out among traditional soups.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from fresh tomatoes and carrots, this soup is a healthy choice for anyone looking to eat better.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The addition of green apples adds a refreshing twist that balances the richness of the tomatoes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, this soup works well as an appetizer or main course.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add your favorite herbs to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious tomato carrot apple soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Blender
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Blender: Essential for achieving that smooth texture which makes the soup delightful.
• Strainer: Helps in removing any chunky bits after blending, giving you a velvety finish.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful tomato carrot apple soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tbsp vegan butter/butter/coconut oil
• 1 green apple halved and de-seeded
• 1 medium onion diced (optional)
• 1 carrot halved
• 4 medium tomatoes halved
• 1 tbsp stock powder (I use vegeta/massel; you may use any brand you like)
• 3 cups water
• Salt and pepper as per taste

How to Make Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

In a large saucepan, heat your choice of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions (if using) and sauté for about 2 minutes until they become translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes

Next, add the halved tomatoes along with salt. Mix well and let them cook until they soften, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Apples

Once the tomatoes are soft, add in the halved carrots and green apples. Pour in 3 cups of water to combine everything well.

Step 4: Simmer Together

Allow the mixture to simmer until all vegetables are tender. If needed, stir in additional water and add your stock powder during this step.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

After cooling slightly, use a blender to puree the soup until smooth. For an even finer texture, strain through a fine mesh strainer.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season your tomato carrot apple soup with black pepper or red chili flakes according to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe

Tomato carrot apple soup is a delightful combination of flavors that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty appetizer, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread adds texture and absorbs the delicious flavors of the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your bowl with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and fresh aroma, enhancing the overall taste.

Accompanied by Cheese Toasties

• Pair the soup with cheese toasties for a comforting meal. The melted cheese complements the soup’s tanginess perfectly.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance out the richness of the soup. Consider using mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette for freshness.

How to Perfect Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe

Perfecting your tomato carrot apple soup is simple with a few handy tips. These suggestions will help elevate your dish to new heights.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and carrots will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend less or add more vegetables during cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup during cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, and stock levels according to your preference.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices such as cumin or paprika for an extra kick of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe

To make your meal even more nourishing, consider pairing your tomato carrot apple soup with these delightful side dishes. Each option complements the flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich soup.
2. Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies add crunch and additional nutrients to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can provide protein and balance out the flavors.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These are filling and can be stuffed with grains or beans for added texture.
5. Savory Scones: Lightly flavored scones make for a unique side that pairs well with soups.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls offer a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor to the warm soup.
7. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for a delightful snack alongside your soup.
8. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides variety and richness that complements the dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe can be simple, but a few mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Not sautéing onions or garlic first can lead to a less flavorful base. Always start by cooking these aromatics for a few minutes to enhance the soup’s taste.
• Using unripe tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes can make your soup taste sour. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor in your soup.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season at different stages of cooking can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper.
• Overblending the soup: Blending too long can make the texture too smooth or frothy. Blend just until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old vegetables will impact the flavor and health benefits of your soup. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can use any variety of green apples, but Granny Smith is recommended for its tartness that balances well with tomatoes.

How do I make this soup spicier?

To increase the heat, add red chili flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking according to your spice preference.

Can I substitute chicken broth?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth for added flavor instead of water.

Is this tomato carrot apple soup healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with vitamins from carrots and tomatoes while being low in calories, making it a nutritious choice.

What can I serve with this soup?

This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread, salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato carrot apple soup | carrot tomato soup recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. You can customize it by adding spices or using different vegetables based on what you have at home. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade goodness!