Cream Of Tomato Soup Recipe

Cream of Tomato Soup, also known as Tomato Bisque, is a classic and comforting dish enjoyed by people all over the world. It is made with simple ingredients such as rice, onions, tomatoes, and a few seasonings. This soup has a rich and velvety texture that is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Let's dive into the recipe and learn more about the history of this delightful soup.

History of Cream of Tomato Soup:
The history of tomato soup goes back centuries. Tomatoes originated in South America and were brought to Europe during the age of exploration. Initially, tomatoes were considered poisonous in Europe and were used only as ornamental plants. However, by the 18th century, people began to realize the culinary potential of tomatoes.

The first recipe for tomato soup can be traced back to the late 18th century. It appeared in various European cookbooks and was commonly served at dinner parties. In the 19th century, tomato soup gained popularity in the United States, particularly during the Civil War when it was served to soldiers for its nourishing and easily digestible qualities.

Throughout the years, different variations of tomato soup emerged, including the Cream of Tomato Soup. This version incorporates the richness of dairy products, such as cream or milk, to create a smoother and more indulgent soup.

Fun Facts about Cream of Tomato Soup:
- Tomato soup was popularized in the United States by the Campbell Soup Company, who introduced their famous condensed tomato soup in 1897. It became one of their best-selling products and remains a beloved classic to this day.
- Tomato soup is often enjoyed with grilled cheese sandwiches, making it a perfect pairing for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- In some countries, tomato soup is served chilled as a refreshing summer dish, while in others, it is enjoyed hot during cold winters.

Now that we know a bit more about the history and fun facts, let's get cooking!

Cream of Tomato Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup rice
- 1/3 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons bacon drippings
- 2 cups tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- Little chopped green pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by washing the rice thoroughly under running water. This helps remove any excess starch. Drain the rice and set it aside.

2. In a large pot, heat the bacon drippings over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes tender and translucent, but not browned. This will take approximately 5 minutes.

3. Once the onion is cooked, add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes, until they become soft and start to break down.

4. Using a strainer or a food mill, strain the cooked tomatoes and onions into a separate bowl. This step helps remove any seeds or skin from the tomatoes, resulting in a smoother soup.

5. Return the strained tomato mixture to the pot and add the boiled rice to it. Stir well to combine.

6. Pour 3 cups of boiling water into the pot with the tomato and rice mixture. Give it a good stir and then bring the mixture to a boil.

7. Once the soup comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to fully cook.

8. After the soup has simmered, add the salt, sugar, and paprika. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.

9. If desired, you can add a little chopped green pepper to the soup for extra flavor and a hint of spice.

10. Lastly, sprinkle the soup with fresh chopped parsley for added freshness and garnish.

11. Serve the Cream of Tomato Soup hot and enjoy its creamy and comforting goodness.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
There are several other tomato-based soups similar to Cream of Tomato Soup that you might want to explore. Here are a few:

1. Tomato Bisque: Similar to Cream of Tomato Soup, Tomato Bisque is also a smooth and creamy tomato soup. It typically contains heavy cream or pureed vegetables to create a velvety texture.

2. Gazpacho: Unlike the hot Cream of Tomato Soup, Gazpacho is a cold Spanish tomato soup. It is made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. Gazpacho is traditionally served chilled and is perfect for hot summer days.

3. Spicy Tomato Soup: For those who like a little kick, Spicy Tomato Soup is a great choice. It incorporates additional spices such as chili powder or red pepper flakes to give the soup some heat.

4. Tomato Tortellini Soup: This hearty soup combines the flavors of tomatoes with cheese-filled tortellini pasta. It's a delicious and filling option for those looking for a heartier meal.

Each of these variations offers a unique twist on the classic Cream of Tomato Soup and provides an opportunity to explore different flavors and textures.

Whether you choose to enjoy a bowl of Cream of Tomato Soup on its own or pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich, this timeless recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So go ahead, grab your apron, and start cooking this comforting soup that has stood the test of time.

Vote