Spirited Essence Works

Soup Swap Day, celebrated on January 20th, is a delightful tradition that brings people together through the warmth of homemade soups. Its origins trace back to a small gathering of friends who decided to exchange their favorite soup recipes and creations. Over time, this heartwarming idea gained popularity, evolving into a nationally recognized day for soup enthusiasts.

The concept is simple yet profound – participants prepare batches of their favorite savory soups and gather with friends or neighbors to exchange these culinary treasures. The act of sharing not only fosters a sense of community but also introduces individuals to a diverse array of flavors and cooking styles.

Imagine a cozy winter day filled with the aroma of simmering pots, laughter echoing through kitchens, and the joy of discovering new taste sensations. Soup Swap Day embodies the spirit of camaraderie, transforming a mundane winter evening into a celebration of culinary creativity and friendship.

Now, let’s dive into a delicious savory soup recipe that you can consider for your next Soup Swap Day gathering:

Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup:

Ingredients:

• 3.5 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle minced garlic over them. Roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes or until tomatoes are caramelized.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and diced carrot until softened.
4. Add the roasted tomatoes, garlic, and vegetable broth to the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, add heavy cream at this stage.
7. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

This Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a perfect contribution to any Soup Swap Day gathering. This would pair greatly with a Grilled Cheese too! Enjoy the warmth and connection that a bowl of homemade soup can bring on this special day!