Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Soup is a classic, comforting dish with roots in Italian cuisine. Known for its creamy texture and rich tomato flavor, this soup is a versatile favorite enjoyed worldwide. The legacy of this dish lies in its simplicity and use of fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream. Fun fact: In the 19th century, tomato soup became a household staple due to its convenience as a canned product. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this soup is a timeless comfort food.

Health Benefits for Gastroparesis

1. Easily Digestible: The pureed texture of the soup makes it gentle on the stomach, ideal for individuals with delayed gastric emptying.
2. Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are high in lycopene, which supports gut health and reduces inflammation.
3. Low in Fiber (when strained): By straining the soup, the fiber content is reduced, making it suitable for gastroparesis.
4. Hydration Support: The high water content in tomatoes helps maintain hydration.
5. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Basil contains natural compounds that can soothe inflammation in the digestive tract.

Cooking Time/Duration

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information and Calories:

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	120 kcal
Protein	3 g
Carbohydrates	15 g
Fiber	2 g
Fats	6 g
Vitamin C	40% of RDA
Lycopene	10 mg

Serves

4 people

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ripe tomatoes	6 large
Fresh basil leaves	1/2 cup
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Onion, chopped	1 medium
Garlic cloves, minced	2 cloves
Vegetable stock	3 cups
Heavy cream (optional)	1/4 cup
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste

Basic Preparation

1. Wash and chop the tomatoes and basil.
2. Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
3. Gather all ingredients and keep them ready for cooking.

Detailed Recipe and Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Cook the Tomatoes:
   • Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.
3. Add Stock and Basil:
   • Pour in the vegetable stock and add the fresh basil leaves. Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Blend the Soup:
   • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches and blend.
5. Strain (Optional):
   • For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and skin.
6. Add Cream (Optional):
   • Stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Reheat and Serve:
   • Reheat the soup gently on low heat before serving.

Texture, Color, Smell, Taste, and Thickness

Aspect	Description
Texture	Smooth and creamy
Color	Vibrant red with green flecks
Smell	Aromatic blend of tomatoes, basil, and garlic
Taste	Rich, tangy, and slightly sweet
Thickness	Medium, easily sippable

How to Serve

Serve the Tomato Basil Soup warm, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of cream. Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or crackers for a complete meal.

Final Words

Tomato Basil Soup is more than just a comforting dish; it’s a nutritious option that’s gentle on the digestive system and packed with flavor. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a light starter, this gastroparesis-friendly recipe is sure to become a favorite in your healthy cooking repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy the wholesome goodness of fresh ingredients!