Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
Among a large number of Indian dishes, the Indian Tomato Soup stands out as a comforting, spicy, and flavorful delight that warms the heart and soothes the soul.
This recipe is a twist on the classic tomato soup, incorporating traditional Indian spices to elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
What Is Aa Indian Tomato Soup?
Indian Tomato Soup, often referred to as “Tomato Shorba” in many parts of India, is a variant of tomato soup that is enriched with Indian spices and herbs, offering a flavorful and aromatic experience distinct from its Western counterpart.
Unlike the creamier Western tomato soup, Indian Tomato Soup is typically lighter, with a broth-like consistency, and can range from mildly spicy to quite hot, depending on the preparation.
Indian Tomato Soup Recipe: A Spicy Delight
You do not need to follow the exact ingredients, feel free to mix things up a little!
Ingredients:
- 1 kg ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably mustard or coconut oil)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
- Cream or coconut milk for garnishing (optional)
- 4 cups of water or vegetable stock
Preparation:
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds or until the mustard seeds start to pop.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies to the pot. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the raw smell of garlic and ginger disappears about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook the spices for a minute until they are well combined and fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot along with the sugar (if using). Cook the tomatoes until they are soft and mushy, and the oil starts to separate from the mixture, about 8-10 minutes.
- Simmer: Add water or vegetable stock to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Blend and Strain: Allow the soup to cool slightly, then blend the mixture until smooth using a hand blender or a regular blender. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the skins and seeds for a smoother texture.
- Final Touches: Return the soup to the pot and bring it to a simmer. Adjust the seasoning with salt and add the garam masala. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Pour the soup into bowls. Garnish with a swirl of cream or coconut milk and fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or rice.
Final Thoughts On An Indian Tomato Soup Recipe
This Indian Tomato Soup recipe combines the tanginess of tomatoes with the warmth of Indian spices, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any season.
Whether you’re seeking solace on a rainy day or looking for a flavorful starter for your meal, this soup is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich tapestry of flavors that Indian cuisine has to offer, right in the comfort of your home.