Tomato Soup Recipe – Mint & Corn Flour Comfort Bowl

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Tomato Soup Recipe – Mint & Corn Flour Comfort Bowl

Hey everyone! There’s just something about a warm bowl of tomato soup that feels like a hug, isn’t there? Especially on a chilly evening, or when you’re feeling a little under the weather. This recipe is a family favorite – I first made it when my little one was sick, and it’s been a go-to ever since. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor thanks to a little secret ingredient: corn flour! Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average tomato soup. The mint adds a lovely freshness that cuts through the richness, and the corn flour gives it a beautifully smooth, velvety texture. It’s quick to make – ready in under 30 minutes – and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the sweetness, spice level, or even make it vegan!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

• 6-7 ripe tomatoes
• 1/2 medium onion
• 1.5 cups water (approx. 360ml)
• 2 teaspoons ghee or olive oil (approx. 10ml)
• 2 teaspoons corn flour (cornstarch) (approx. 10g)
• 15 mint stalks
• 1.5 teaspoons salt (approx. 7.5g)
• 2 teaspoons sugar (approx. 10g)
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper powder (approx. 1.25g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Tomatoes: Choosing the Right Variety

Roma or plum tomatoes are fantastic for soup because they have fewer seeds and a naturally sweet flavor. But honestly, any ripe tomatoes will work! If you’re using less flavorful tomatoes, you might want to add a pinch more sugar.

Ghee vs. Olive Oil: Flavor & Health Benefits

I love using ghee for that classic Indian flavor, but olive oil works beautifully too, especially if you’re looking for a lighter option. Ghee adds a lovely richness, while olive oil offers a fruity note. Use about 10ml of either.

Corn Flour (Cornstarch): The Secret to Texture

Don’t skip the corn flour! It’s what gives this soup its lovely, smooth texture. It also helps to thicken it without making it taste starchy. Just a quick fry eliminates any raw taste.

Mint: Freshness & Regional Variations

Fresh mint is key here. The aroma and flavor are unbeatable. In some parts of India, people also add a touch of hing (asafoetida) for extra depth, but it’s totally optional.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, let’s prep the tomatoes. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the tomatoes for about 5 minutes. This makes peeling them super easy. Once cooled, peel the tomatoes and blend them into a smooth puree. Don’t forget to strain the puree to remove the seeds – this will give you a silky-smooth soup.
2. Now, heat the ghee or olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent.
3. Sprinkle in the corn flour and fry for just 10 seconds. This is important to get rid of that raw corn flour taste.
4. Pour in the water and the tomato puree. Add the salt, sugar, and pepper powder. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
5. Tie the mint stalks together with cotton thread (this makes it easy to remove later!). Immerse the mint bundle in the soup and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This infuses the soup with a wonderful minty flavor.
6. Remove the mint stalks, squeezing the juices back into the soup. Simmer for another minute, and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed – maybe a little more salt or sugar?
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the mint: Simmering for too long can make the mint flavor bitter.
• Strain, strain, strain: Seriously, straining the tomato puree makes a huge difference in the final texture.
• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Adjust the salt, sugar, and pepper to your liking.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation!

Vegan Tomato Soup

Simply substitute the ghee with olive oil or any other plant-based oil. It’s that easy! My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut oil for a subtle sweetness.

Gluten-Free Tomato Soup

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your corn flour is certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.

Spice Level Adjustment

Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red chili powder or a finely chopped green chili along with the onions.

Festival Adaptations (e.g., Diwali snack pairing)

During Diwali, my family loves serving this soup with crispy mathri (a savory Indian cracker) for dipping. It’s the perfect combination of warm and crunchy!

Serving Suggestions

This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with:

• A swirl of cream (optional)
• A sprinkle of fresh herbs (basil or cilantro)
• Crusty bread for dipping
• Grilled cheese sandwiches – a classic pairing!

Storage Instructions

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it completely before reheating.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What type of tomatoes are best for this soup?

Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal, but any ripe tomatoes will work.

Can I use tomato paste instead of fresh tomatoes?

You can! Use about 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and add 1.5 cups of water.

Why use corn flour in tomato soup? What does it do?

Corn flour thickens the soup and gives it a beautifully smooth, velvety texture.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the soup?

Add more or less sugar to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice can also balance the sweetness.

Is it possible to blend the mint into the soup instead of using stalks?

You can, but using the stalks infuses a more subtle and refined mint flavor. Blending the leaves can sometimes make the soup slightly bitter.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of tomato soup! I hope this recipe brings a little warmth and happiness to your kitchen. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!