James Martin Tomato And Red Pepper Soup Recipe
James Martin’s Tomato and Red Pepper Soup is a flavorful blend of roasted red peppers, ripe tomatoes, garlic, and onions, cooked together and then pureed into a silky-smooth texture. The combination of ingredients creates a soup that is naturally sweet, slightly tangy, and deeply satisfying. It’s a healthy option, low in calories, and rich in vitamins, making it perfect for a light meal or as a starter to a larger spread.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and simmering
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- Red peppers (4 large): Roasted for a deep, sweet flavor.
- Ripe tomatoes (500g / 1 lb): Fresh or canned, adding the tangy base to the soup.
- Onion (1 large): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic cloves (3): Roasted with the peppers for a mellow flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used for roasting the vegetables and sautéing the onions.
- Vegetable stock (750ml / 3 cups): Provides the liquid base and enhances the flavors.
- Basil leaves (a handful): Adds freshness and complements the sweetness of the peppers.
- Salt and pepper: Season the soup to taste.
- Cream (optional): For a richer, creamier finish.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare the vegetables for roasting: Halve the red peppers and remove the seeds. Place the peppers and unpeeled garlic cloves on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are soft and slightly charred.
- Sauté the onions: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Peel the garlic: Once roasted, peel the garlic cloves and add them to the pot with the onions.
- Add the tomatoes and peppers: Roughly chop the roasted peppers and add them, along with the tomatoes, to the pot.
- Pour in the stock: Add the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend the soup: Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more stock or water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in some fresh basil for added flavor. For a creamier texture, swirl in a tablespoon of cream before serving.