Save A vibrant, warming soup featuring roasted red peppers and tomatoes blended with aromatic spices for a bold, comforting flavor.
I first made this soup on a chilly evening when I craved something both spicy and soothing, and it instantly became a staple in my kitchen.
Ingredients
- Tomatoes: 4 large ripe, quartered
- Red bell peppers: 2 large, seeded and halved
- Onion: 1 medium, peeled and quartered
- Garlic: 3 cloves, peeled
- Carrot: 1 medium, peeled and chopped
- Red chili: 1 fresh, seeded and chopped (or to taste)
- Vegetable broth: 3 cups (720 ml)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (or to taste)
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh basil leaves: for garnish (optional)
- Extra virgin olive oil: for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread: for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Vegetables:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast Vegetables:
- Place tomatoes, red peppers, onion, and garlic on baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bake Until Tender:
- Roast for 25 minutes until softened and slightly charred at the edges.
- Sauté Carrot and Chili:
- Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrot and chili, cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add Roasted Veg and Spices:
- Add roasted vegetables, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne (if using). Stir well.
- Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use immersion blender (or transfer to blender in batches) to puree soup until smooth.
- Season to Taste:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy with crusty bread if desired.
Save Sharing this soup with my family on weekends has become a cozy tradition, especially when served with warm crusty bread for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with your favorite crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal, or top with a swirl of coconut milk for extra richness.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead option.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 140 calories, 6 g fat, 21 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein, making it a light yet satisfying option.
Save This spicy tomato & roasted pepper soup is sure to warm you up on even the coldest days. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Recipe FAQ
- → What gives the soup its spicy flavor?
The heat comes from fresh red chili and optional cayenne pepper, balanced with smoky paprika and cumin for depth.
- → Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes, yellow or orange bell peppers work well for a sweeter, less spicy variation.
- → What is the best way to roast the vegetables?
Roast quartered tomatoes, halved peppers, onions, and garlic at 220°C until softened and slightly charred for enhanced flavor.
- → Is it necessary to peel the garlic and carrot?
Peeling ensures a smoother texture and removes any bitterness, especially for the carrot and garlic used in sautéing.
- → How can I adjust the soup’s consistency?
Blend thoroughly for a smooth finish, or pulse less for a chunkier texture to suit your preference.
- → What dishes pair well with this soup?
Serve with crusty bread or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a complete meal.