Imagine a soup so rich, so vibrant, and so authentically Polish that it transports you straight to a cozy kitchen in Warsaw. Zupa pomidorowa isn't just a tomato soup – it's a culinary journey that combines the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and soul-warming comfort. Whether you're looking to impress your dinner guests or craving a hearty meal that hugs your soul, this recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dish that promises to elevate your home cooking game!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Polish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 kg tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the tomatoes thoroughly and chopping them into medium-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can create a bitter taste.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and stir, allowing them to release their natural juices. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring all tomatoes are covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper to the soup. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances their natural sweetness.
- Simmer the soup uncovered for approximately 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down completely.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a standard blender in batches if preferred.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Optional: Add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for added richness.
Tips
- Choose ripe, fresh tomatoes for the most intense flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren't in season, high-quality canned tomatoes work wonderfully.
- Don't rush the sautéing process – letting onions and garlic develop a light golden color builds deeper flavor complexity.
- The sugar is crucial! It helps balance the tomatoes' acidity and brings out their natural sweetness. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. This saves time and reduces cleanup.
- Fresh basil is not just a garnish – it adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream when serving.
- This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
