Tomato Soup. Mrs. Harry True. Recipe

Tomato soup is a beloved classic that has a rich and interesting history. Its origins can be traced back to the 18th century in Spain, where it was known as "sopa de tomate." Originally, tomato soup was consumed as a breakfast dish and was made using bread, olive oil, and tomatoes. Over time, various versions of tomato soup emerged, each with its own unique twist and ingredients.

One such rendition of tomato soup is the Mrs. Harry True's recipe. This recipe combines a rich base of canned tomatoes, celery, and water, and is further enhanced with the addition of soda, oyster liquid, boiling milk, and cream. The result is a velvety and flavorful soup that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

To begin, gather the following ingredients:

- 1 quart canned tomatoes
- 1 quart of water
- A few stalks of celery
- ¾ teaspoon of soda
- 1 quart of oyster liquid
- 1 quart boiling milk
- 1 cup of cream
- Salt, butter, and pepper to taste

Start by placing the canned tomatoes, water, and celery stalks in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and let it simmer until the celery becomes soft and tender.

Once the celery is cooked, remove the pot from the stove. Add three-fourths of a teaspoon of soda to the soup and allow it to effervesce. This simple step helps to neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes and create a smoother and less tangy flavor profile.

Next, carefully pour in the liquid from one quart of oysters, followed by one quart of boiling milk and one cup of cream. These ingredients add a touch of richness and depth to the soup, creating a luxurious and satisfying texture.

Return the pot to the stove and bring the soup to a gentle boil. At this point, you can season the soup with salt, butter, and pepper according to your taste preferences. The amount of salt and pepper can vary depending on personal preference, so be sure to adjust accordingly.

Allow the soup to boil for a few moments, ensuring that all the flavors have melded together harmoniously. Once ready, ladle the tomato soup into bowls and serve with your favorite bread or croutons. The creamy and comforting flavors of this soup are perfect for any time of year, whether it's a cozy winter evening or a refreshing summer lunch.

Now that you've mastered Mrs. Harry True's delicious tomato soup recipe, you may be interested in exploring other similar recipes. There are a wide variety of tomato-based soups to discover, each with its own unique set of ingredients and preparation methods.

One popular variation is the classic tomato bisque, which typically incorporates additional ingredients such as onions, garlic, and heavy cream to create a richer and more indulgent soup. Another option is the creamy tomato and basil soup, which combines the fresh flavors of basil leaves with tomatoes, cream, and a hint of garlic for a vibrant and aromatic dish.

For those looking for a lighter alternative, gazpacho is an excellent choice. This cold tomato soup originated in Spain and is made with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, garlic, and various seasonings. Gazpacho is perfect for hot summer days and can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a spread of tapas.

Whether you choose to stick with the classic tomato soup recipe or explore the world of tomato-based soups, one thing is for certain - the comforting flavors and versatility of tomato soup never go out of style. So grab your pot and ladle, and get ready to embark on a delightful culinary journey with tomato soup at the helm.