Introduction to Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
When the workday winds down and the chill of evening sets in, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of homemade roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings. For young professionals juggling busy schedules, preparing this delicious dish can feel both rewarding and revitalizing. A quick trip to the market, where you'll find fresh, ripe tomatoes to roast, is all it takes to elevate your evening meal.
Why Homemade Soup is a Game-Changer for Young Professionals
Making your own soup can be a transformative experience. Research shows that cooking at home can improve both your well-being and financial situation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a vibrant roasted tomato soup packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, using fresh ingredients not only tastes better but supports local farmers source.
And let's talk about those cheddar dumplings—they provide a comforting texture that takes your soup to the next level. This dish is not only a great way to unwind but also perfect for meal prepping. The leftovers can be a savior on busy nights! Imagine coming home to a fragrant soup that just needs reheating; it's like a warm hug in a bowl.
So grab your apron and let's dive into this comforting recipe!
Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Creating a delicious bowl of roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings involves selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the rich flavors of the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients for the Roasted Tomato Soup
- 2 ¼ lb of ripe tomatoes
- 1 peeled and diced onion
- 1 peeled and diced carrot
- 2 finely chopped garlic cloves
- 1 bunch of basil, separated into leaves and stalks
- 1 ¼ pints of vegetable stock
- Grated mature cheddar
- Olive oil
Ingredients for the Cheddar Dumplings
- 2 slices of crumbled bread (or about 55g of breadcrumbs)
- 3 beaten eggs
- 2 oz of grated mature cheddar
- Salt and black pepper
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs or spices to make it your own!
Preparing Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Making roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings is not only a comforting experience but also a delightful culinary adventure! Let’s dive into each step to create this delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Preheat and Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (gas mark 5). This step is crucial because roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds a delightful depth of flavor. Next, cut your ripe tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up in a baking dish. Drizzle them with a splash of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. A great tip here is to use a variety of tomatoes—heirloom, Roma, or even cherry tomatoes can make your soup extra special! Roast them for around 60 minutes until they’re soft and show some nice color around the edges.
Sauté the Aromatics
While the tomatoes are roasting, it's time to build the flavor base of your soup. Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic; sauté them for about 7 minutes until softened. Don’t rush this step, as patiently caramelizing your vegetables will play a big role in flavor. Chop the basil stalks (you can discard the leaves for now) and stir them in for an aromatic boost. Cook for another minute to release those lovely herby aromas.
Roast the Tomatoes and Blend the Soup
Once your tomatoes are beautifully roasted, add them to the sautéed vegetables, including all their delicious juices. Pour in about 1 ¼ pints of vegetable stock, stir, and bring this mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10 to 20 minutes, until the carrots are very soft. After that, it’s blending time! Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Pour the soup back into the pan and gently reheat.
Prepare the Cheddar Dumplings
While the soup is on the heat, let’s whip up those irresistible cheddar dumplings. In a bowl, combine crumbled bread (or breadcrumbs), beaten eggs, and grated mature cheddar. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. You want to create a moist dough-like mixture that you can shape into small balls, roughly the size of a teaspoon.
Cook the Dumplings in the Soup
Carefully drop your dumpling balls into the hot soup and cover the pot with a lid. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the dumplings will cook through and absorb the soup's rich flavors! When it’s time to serve, ladle the soup and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with more grated cheddar and fresh basil leaves. What could be better than this warming bowl of roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings to make any cold day feel cozy?
Variations on Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Spicy Roasted Tomato Soup
Looking to give your roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings a kick? Add a dash of chili flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce while simmering the soup! If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider roasting some red peppers alongside the tomatoes. This will not only enhance the soup's depth but also pair beautifully with the richness of the cheddar dumplings.
Herb-Infused Dumplings
Elevate your dumplings by mixing in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, which complement the flavors of the soup beautifully. You can also experiment with different cheeses—try feta for a tangy twist or even incorporate a hint of garlic in the dumpling dough for added flavor. These small adjustments can transform your roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings into a gourmet experience!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Choosing the right tomatoes
For your roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings, selecting the right tomatoes is crucial. Look for ripe, in-season tomatoes like San Marzano or Roma. Their deep flavor and natural sweetness will elevate your soup to another level. If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, don't hesitate to use quality canned tomatoes; they can often be just as flavorful and save you prep time!
Making it vegan-friendly
If you want a vegan-friendly version, simply swap out the mature cheddar cheese for your favorite plant-based cheese alternative and use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture in place of eggs for the dumplings. You can also enrich the flavor profile by adding nutritional yeast to your dumpling mixture. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious bowl of soup, regardless of dietary preferences!
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Perfect accompaniments
To elevate your roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings, consider pairing it with a warm, crusty bread or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a protein boost, add some sliced turkey bacon or chicken ham on the side. You can enhance the taste by serving a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of roasted garlic oil for that extra layer of flavor.
Creative presentation ideas
When it comes to serving, presentation matters! Use shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the soup and dumplings. Top each bowl with freshly grated cheddar and a few basil leaves for visual appeal. For a fun twist, consider serving individual servings in small mugs for a cozy, rustic touch. A sprinkle of chili flakes can also add a splash of color and a hint of heat—tailored perfectly for your friends!
Time Breakdown for Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings will take about 15 minutes. This includes chopping your veggies and setting up your baking dish for those delicious tomatoes.
Cooking time
The cooking process is where the magic happens! You'll spend approximately 1 hour baking the tomatoes and about 30 minutes simmering the soup and cooking the dumplings. In total, expect around 1 hour and 30 minutes for cooking.
Total time
All in all, you're looking at a lovely, leisurely total of about 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy evening or impressing guests with minimal stress!
Now, let's dive into the delicious details of our recipe!
Nutritional Facts for Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Understanding the nutritional profile of your meals can help create a balanced diet, especially with comforting choices like roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings. Here’s a quick glance:
Calories
One serving of this delicious soup and dumplings contains approximately 350 calories. It’s a warm, hearty option for those chilly nights.
Protein
Packed with flavor, each bowl of soup with dumplings offers about 15 grams of protein, thanks to the addition of cheddar cheese and eggs, making it a satisfying choice!
Sodium
Be mindful of sodium content; this soup has roughly 600 mg per serving. You can adjust this by opting for low-sodium vegetable stock, ensuring a heart-healthy version without sacrificing flavor.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional aspects of tomatoes and cheese, check out Healthline for insights!
FAQs about Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together wonderfully. There’s no rush—prepare it ahead of time, and simply reheat when you're ready to enjoy a cozy meal!
How do I store leftover tomato soup?
Storing leftovers is a breeze. Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. For extended storage, consider freezing it in portions—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave!
What can I serve with this soup?
Pair your roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings with a light salad for a well-rounded meal. A classic Caesar or a refreshing arugula salad complements the soup’s rich flavors perfectly. For a special touch, serve with warm, crusty bread to dip into the soup!
Conclusion on Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
In summary, this roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings is not just a comforting dish; it’s also a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can warm your soul. Perfect for casual dinners or chilly evenings, this recipe brings satisfaction in every spoonful. Don’t miss out on trying it!
Roasted tomato soup with cheddar dumplings
Equipment
- baking dish
- Pan
- blender
Ingredients
Roasted tomato soup
- 2.25 lb ripe tomatoes cut in half
- 1 onion peeled and diced
- 1 carrot peeled and diced
- 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 bunch basil separated into leaves and stalks
- 1.25 pints vegetable stock
- mature cheddar grated
- olive oil
Dumplings
- 2 slices bread crumbled
- 3 eggs beaten
- 2 oz mature cheddar
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 190°C/gas mark 5.
- Cut the tomatoes in half and arrange cut-side up in a baking dish. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour, until the tomatoes are totally soft and beginning to char around the edges.
- Heat a couple tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add the onion, carrot, and garlic. Cook for approximately 7 minutes until softened. Meanwhile, chop the basil stalks and add to the pan. Cook for another minute.
- Add the roasted tomatoes (including any juices that seeped out) to the pan along with the vegetable stock. Stir, bring to the boil, then turn the heat down. Cover and leave to simmer for about 10-20 minutes (until the carrots are very soft).
- Blitz the soup in a blender then return to the pan and gently reheat.
- Meanwhile, make the dumplings by mixing together all of the ingredients - you should have a moist doughy mix that’s easy to shape into small balls (about the size of a teaspoon).
- Drop the balls into the hot soup and simmer with a lid on for approximately 10 minutes.
- Ladle the soup and dumplings into bowls and garnish with grated cheddar cheese and fresh basil leaves before serving.
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