Creamy Tomato Soup with Texturized Vegetable Protein (TVP)
This recipe demonstrates how to incorporate texturized vegetable protein (TVP) into a delicious and hearty tomato soup, adding a boost of protein and fiber without compromising taste or texture. This is a great budget-friendly meal, perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike!
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Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup TVP (texturized vegetable protein)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Rehydrate the TVP
Before you begin, place the TVP in a bowl and cover it with the 1 cup of water. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to rehydrate. This step is crucial for preventing a gritty texture in your soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the TVP
Drain the rehydrated TVP and add it to the simmering soup. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
For a smoother, creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it thicker: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the soup.
This recipe is a versatile base that you can adapt to your liking. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own unique and delicious TVP soup! Enjoy!
