Tomato Tea Recipe (Savory Soup Style)

Tomatoes: Fresh and ripe, these form the base of the recipe, providing a rich and tangy flavor.

Water: Used to adjust the consistency and help blend the ingredients smoothly.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes and other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the soup.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic, adding a subtle richness.

Garlic: Provides a fragrant and savory base note to the soup.

Dried basil: Adds a hint of herbaceous flavor, complementing the tomatoes perfectly.

When sautéing the garlic in olive oil, be sure to keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked, so aim for a light golden color before adding the chopped tomatoes. This will ensure a balanced and aromatic base for your tomato tea.

• tomatoes - Substitute with canned tomatoes: Canned tomatoes can provide a similar flavor and texture, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds more depth and flavor to the soup compared to plain water.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor, though it will also add a different taste profile.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different taste.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor that works well in soups.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano provides a similar aromatic quality and pairs well with tomatoes.

• Allow the tomato tea to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to spoilage.
• Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the liquid will expand when frozen.
• Label the containers with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long the soup has been stored.
• Store the tomato tea in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place the containers in the freezer, where it can be kept for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For a quick thaw, place the sealed container or bag in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the soup is thawed.
• Avoid reheating the tomato tea multiple times, as this can degrade the flavor and texture. Only reheat the amount you plan to consume.

• Stovetop Method: Pour the leftover soup into a saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Once it reaches your desired temperature, it's ready to serve.

• Microwave Method: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Double Boiler Method: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl with the soup over the pot, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir occasionally until the soup is heated through.

• Slow Cooker Method: Pour the leftover soup into the slow cooker. Set it to low and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is great for maintaining the soup's texture and flavor.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Pot: Used to heat the olive oil and cook the tomatoes and other ingredients.

• Stove: Provides the heat source for cooking the ingredients in the pot.

• Wooden spoon: Used to stir the ingredients while they cook.

• Blender: Blends the cooked mixture until smooth.

• Strainer: Removes any solids from the blended mixture to achieve a smooth texture.

• Knife: Used to chop the tomatoes and mince the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to chop the tomatoes and mince the garlic.

• Measuring spoons: Measures the salt, pepper, olive oil, and dried basil.

• Measuring cup: Measures the water.

• Ladle: Used to serve the hot tomato tea into bowls or cups.

Use canned tomatoes: Substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes to save chopping time.

Pre-minced garlic: Use pre-minced garlic from a jar to skip the mincing step.

Immersion blender: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup, avoiding extra dishes.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick reheating later.

Pre-measured spices: Measure out your salt, pepper, and dried basil ahead of time.