Lemongrass Tomato Corn Soup
Description:
Lemongrass Tomato Corn Soup is a light and refreshing dish that combines the fresh flavors of green and ripe tomatoes with the sweetness of corn, creating a beautifully balanced texture and flavor profile. The aromatic essence of lemongrass adds an exotic touch, making this soup a perfect addition to a cozy rainy day. This soup is as nourishing as it is delicious, and with its vibrant colors and fragrant notes, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for those looking for a healthy and flavorful vegetarian appetizer, Lemongrass Tomato Corn Soup is sure to warm your soul.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes, green | 4 tomatoes |
| Tomatoes, ripe | 2 tomatoes |
| Sweet corn, shelled | 1 cup |
| Vegetable stock | 4 cups |
| Red onion | 1 medium-sized onion |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemongrass, minced | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Basil leaves | 1 sprig |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Butter (salted) | For taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
35 minutes
Instructions
-
Prep the ingredients:
Begin by chopping the tomatoes (both green and ripe), red onion, garlic, ginger, basil leaves, and lemongrass. Set them aside to have everything ready for cooking. -
Sauté the aromatics:
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté them on low heat until the onion softens and turns lightly golden. This should take about 5 minutes. -
Add herbs and spices:
Once the onions are softened, stir in the basil leaves, dried oregano, minced lemongrass, and curry powder. Let them sauté together for about 10 seconds to release their fragrant oils. -
Cook the tomatoes and corn:
Add the chopped tomatoes and sweet corn to the pan. Sauté for another 5 minutes on low heat until the tomatoes become slightly tender and start releasing their juices. -
Simmer the soup:
Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a brisk boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the corn is cooked through and tender. -
Blend to desired texture:
Using a hand blender, pulse the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, blend lightly, leaving some pieces of corn and tomato intact for added texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, continue blending until silky. -
Season and finish:
Tear the basil leaves roughly and stir them into the soup. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a knob of salted butter for a richer, creamier finish. -
Serve:
Transfer the soup into serving bowls and serve hot. For an extra treat, pair it with some freshly baked Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia Bread for a delightful weeknight appetizer.
Tips for Serving:
Lemongrass Tomato Corn Soup is perfect on its own or paired with a slice of crusty bread. The addition of a fragrant bread like Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia makes for a satisfying and wholesome meal, elevating the soup into a comforting dinner.
Enjoy your Lemongrass Tomato Corn Soup! This aromatic, vibrant, and velvety soup is a true celebration of fresh ingredients, making it the ideal dish to kick off a meal with friends or family, or simply enjoy as a satisfying starter to a relaxing evening.
