Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until heated through.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer over medium-low heat.
Serving size:
Makes 4-6 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 210
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 870mg
Sugar: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes.
- You can use dried basil instead of fresh basil.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier soup.
- Add cooked pasta or rice for a more filling soup.
- Use different herbs and spices to change the flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending and less mess.
- If using a regular blender, blend in batches and be careful not to overfill the blender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, croutons.
Pairings:
Crusty bread, salad, grilled cheese sandwich.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the soup to a safe temperature of 165°F.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Soup alla Canavese is a traditional Italian soup from the Piedmont region of Italy. It typically includes potatoes, cabbage, and beans, but this version uses tomatoes and basil for a fresher flavor.
Flavor profiles:
Tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor to the soup, while basil adds a fresh and herbaceous note. The spices and herbs add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with crusty bread and a simple salad for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian