Roasted Tomato and Capsicum Soup

10m prep | 1h05m Cook | 4 Servings

~150 calories per serve

Ingredients

• 8 large ripe tomatoes, halved crossways

• 1 red capsicum, quartered lengthways

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp caster sugar

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1 desiree potato, peeled, roughly chopped

• 4 cups liquid chicken stock

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1/2 cup basil leaves

Method

Step 1

Preheat oven to 180°C. Line the base of a large roasting pan with baking paper. Arrange tomatoes and capsicum in a single layer in a pan. Sprinkle with vinegar, oil and sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 1 hour or until tender. Set aside to cool.

Step 2

Meanwhile, combine potato, garlic cloves, stock and tomato paste in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 12 minutes or until the potato is tender. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3

Blend potato and stock mixture until smooth. Return to saucepan. Blend roasted vegetables, pan juices and 1/3 cup basil leaves until smooth. Stir into potato mixture.

Step 4

Place pan over medium heat and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into serving bowls. Top with remaining basil.

Serve.

Why tomato and capsicum?

There are several reasons why your body may be craving tomatoes or capsicum:

Nutrient deficiency: Tomatoes and capsicum are both rich sources of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fibre. If your body is deficient in any of these nutrients, it may crave foods that are high in them, such as tomatoes and capsicum.

Flavour and texture: Tomatoes and capsicum are both delicious and versatile vegetables that can add flavour and texture to a variety of dishes. If you enjoy the taste and texture of these vegetables, you may crave them simply because they are satisfying and enjoyable to eat.

Antioxidants: Tomatoes and capsicum are both rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that help to protect your body against damage from harmful molecules called free radicals. If your body is under stress or you are exposed to environmental toxins, your body may crave foods that are high in antioxidants to help combat this damage.

Blood sugar regulation: Tomatoes and capsicum have a low glycemic index, which means that they can help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in insulin. If your body is experiencing blood sugar imbalances or insulin resistance, you may crave foods that can help to regulate these processes.

If you are craving tomatoes or capsicum, it may be a sign that your body is in need of certain nutrients or that you simply enjoy the taste and texture of these vegetables. Incorporating them into your diet in a variety of ways can help to ensure that your body is getting the nutrients it needs to function optimally.