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## **Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast**
### **Introduction and Origin**
Tomato soup is a timeless comfort food enjoyed across the globe. Its roots trace back to the 19th century when tomatoes gained popularity in European and American kitchens. Paired with cheese and onion toast—a cozy variation of the classic grilled cheese—it becomes a soul-warming meal that satisfies both the nostalgic and gourmet palate.
### **Cultural Significance**
Tomato soup holds a special place in Western cuisine, often served in homes, diners, and school cafeterias. It evokes memories of childhood, rainy days, and home-cooked meals. Cheese toast, especially when paired with soup, is a simple but deeply comforting tradition in many households. The combination is celebrated for its balance of flavor, warmth, and heartiness.
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### **Ingredients**
#### **Tomato Soup**
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
– Onion – 1 medium, chopped
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Carrot – 1 small, chopped (optional for sweetness)
– Canned whole tomatoes – 800g (or 28 oz)
– Vegetable or chicken broth – 2 cups (500 ml)
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Sugar – 1 tsp (to balance acidity)
– Black pepper – to taste
– Heavy cream or milk – ¼ cup (optional for creaminess)
– Fresh basil – a few leaves, chopped (optional)
#### **Cheese and Onion Toast**
– Sourdough or crusty bread – 4 slices
– Butter – for spreading
– Yellow or red onion – 1 medium, thinly sliced
– Grated cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella) – 1 to 1½ cups
– Dijon mustard – 1 tsp (optional for depth)
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### **Optional Additions**
– Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
– Smoked paprika for a smoky twist
– A splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth in the soup
– Garlic powder or herbs in the cheese mixture
– A fried or poached egg on top of the toast for extra richness
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### **Tips for Success**
– Use good-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano varieties are ideal.
– Caramelize the onions slightly before topping the toast for deeper flavor.
– Toast the bread slightly before adding cheese to prevent sogginess.
– Blend the soup for a silky texture, or leave it chunky if preferred.
– Don’t skip the sugar—it balances the tomatoes’ natural acidity beautifully.
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### **Instructions**
#### **Tomato Soup**
1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add carrots (if using) and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
3. Pour in the canned tomatoes with juice. Break them up with a spoon.
4. Add broth, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.
5. Blend the soup with an immersion blender or in batches until smooth.
6. Stir in cream or milk if desired. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
#### **Cheese and Onion Toast**
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Lightly butter bread slices and lay them on a baking sheet.
3. Spread a little Dijon mustard on each slice (if using).
4. Pile on thinly sliced onions and top generously with grated cheese.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling and golden.
6. Serve immediately with the hot tomato soup.
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### **Description**
This dish pairs the rich tang of tomato soup with the savory crunch of cheese and onion toast. The soup is smooth, warm, and slightly sweet, while the toast offers crispy edges and gooey, melted cheese with a hint of sharp onion. Together, they create a cozy, well-rounded meal perfect for any season.
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### **Nutritional Information** *(approximate per serving: serves 4)*
– **Calories:** 380–450 kcal
– **Protein:** 12–15g
– **Fat:** 20–25g
– **Carbohydrates:** 35–40g
– **Fiber:** 4–6g
– **Sugar:** 8–10g
– **Calcium:** 20% of Daily Value
*Note: Values vary depending on optional ingredients and portion sizes.*
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### **Conclusion and Recommendation**
Tomato soup with cheese and onion toast is a heartwarming, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. It’s ideal for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you crave something wholesome yet indulgent. The pairing is classic for a reason—comfort and flavor in perfect harmony.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While indulgent, this dish can be tailored for a more health-conscious approach. Use whole-grain bread, low-fat cheese, and swap cream for plant-based alternatives or Greek yogurt. Boost the soup’s nutrition by adding lentils or more veggies. This way, you savor comfort without compromise—a warm embrace for your taste buds and your well-being.
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