Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Introduction

Did you know that over 70% of people enjoy a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day? If you’re part of that delicious statistic, you’re in for a treat! Today, we’re diving into a comfort food classic: Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings. This recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect choice to warm you up on a cold day. With rich tomato flavors complemented by fluffy, savory dumplings, it’s a dish that challenges the notion that soups can’t be hearty and filling.

Ingredients List

Creating this delightful soup is simple and requires a few ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 ounces) can crushed tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• Cheddar Bay Dumplings:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Feel free to substitute ingredients to fit your dietary preferences. For a vegan option, swap the cream with coconut milk and the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative!

Timing

This Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook, which is about 20% less time than many traditional soup recipes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine the Tomatoes and Spices

Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, and sugar to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheddar Bay Dumplings

While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Mix and Form the Dumplings

In a separate bowl, combine the milk with the melted butter. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing! Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a greased baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake the Dumplings

Bake the dumplings in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown. They should be fluffy and lightly crispy on the outside!

Step 7: Finish the Soup

Once the dumplings are baked, stir the cream into the soup, heating through without boiling. Adjust the seasoning if needed and ladle the soup into bowls.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Top each bowl with the freshly baked dumplings and a sprinkle of parsley if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal with friends and family!

Nutritional Information

This Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings isn’t just a culinary delight; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s a glimpse of what each serving provides:

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

While this recipe is delicious in its original form, here are some health-conscious swaps:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for added fiber.
• Substitute half-and-half for cream for a lighter option.
• Incorporate fresh spinach or kale into the soup for additional nutrients.
• For reduced sodium, opt for low-sodium broth.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with a variety of sides to create a full meal:

• Serve with a fresh side salad topped with vinaigrette.
• Accompany with some crusty bread or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
• Drizzle with a hint of olive oil and a sprinkle of additional herbs for a refined finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your soup and dumplings come out perfectly, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

• Adding the cream too early can lead to curdled texture; always add it just before serving.
• Overmixing the dumpling batter results in tough dumplings – mix just until combined!
• Not letting the soup simmer long enough may result in a less developed flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! Here’s how to store them properly:

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, so consider storing them separately.
• When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup’s consistency.

Conclusion

Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to try it out and let us know how your experience was by leaving a comment or rating! Subscribe for more comforting recipes and culinary tips.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used as substitutes; however, you’ll need less—approximately one-third the amount compared to fresh.

Can I freeze the dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dumplings. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a bag after they are frozen. Cook them directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!

Is there a vegetarian option for the broth?

Definitely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a fully vegetarian meal.

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