Red Pepper Soup

Indulge in the vibrant and flavorful Red Pepper Soup, a delightful dish that showcases the bold and tangy taste of red peppers. This soup is bursting with the goodness of grilled peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. With a hint of curry paste and a touch of sweet chili sauce, this soup offers a delightful balance of flavors. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or an appetizing starter, Red Pepper Soup is sure to impress your taste buds and warm your soul.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 red peppers
• 4 tomatoes
• 50ml/2fl oz vegetable oil
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon mild curry paste
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 leek, white part only, sliced
• 1 teaspoon sweet chili sauce
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

PREPARATION:

1. Preheat the grill. Cut the red peppers into quarters, remove the seeds and membrane, and place them under the grill. Grill until the skin blackens and blisters. Once done, transfer the grilled peppers to a cutting board, cover with a tea towel, and allow them to cool. Once cooled, remove and discard the skin.
2. Mark a small cross on the top of each tomato. Place the tomatoes in a bowl and cover with boiling water for approximately 2 minutes. Drain and allow them to cool. Once cooled, remove the skin, halve the tomatoes, and remove the seeds.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy pan over low heat. Add the dried marjoram, dried mixed herbs, crushed garlic cloves, and mild curry paste. Stir for 1 minute until aromatic. Then, add the sliced red onion and leek, and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Add the grilled peppers, tomatoes, cabbage, and 1.2 liters/2pt of water to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Allow the soup to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender or food processor. Purée the soup for approximately 30 seconds or until smooth.
6. Return the puréed soup to the pan and gently reheat it. Stir in the sweet chili sauce, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
7. Serve the Red Pepper Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkling of fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, if desired.

YIELD: This recipe serves approximately 6 people.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Be cautious when handling hot peppers and boiling water. Take necessary precautions to avoid burns or accidents.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add more curry paste or adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce according to your taste.

TIPS:

• Serve the Red Pepper Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a more substantial meal.
• This soup can be enjoyed hot or cold. If serving it chilled, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. Serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a refreshing twist.

In conclusion, Red Pepper Soup is a delightful and flavorful dish that highlights the bold and tangy taste of red peppers. With its combination of grilled peppers, tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of curry paste, this soup offers a vibrant and satisfying flavor profile.

The process begins with grilling the red peppers until their skin blackens and blisters, enhancing their natural sweetness and smoky undertones. The tomatoes are then prepared by blanching and removing the skin and seeds, adding a bright and juicy element to the soup.

The herbs, garlic, and curry paste are sautéed in vegetable oil to release their aromatic flavors, creating a fragrant base for the soup. The addition of sliced red onion and leek further enhances the savory notes.

Once the vegetables are combined with water and simmered, the soup is then puréed to a smooth consistency, resulting in a velvety texture. The sweet chili sauce adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle heat, balancing the flavors beautifully.

The Red Pepper Soup can be enjoyed hot or chilled, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Serve it as a light lunch or as an appetizing starter for a dinner party. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

So, embark on a culinary adventure and savor the vibrant flavors of Red Pepper Soup. Allow the rich essence of red peppers to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds with every spoonful.