Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Creole Tomato and Pepper Soup?
It is a vibrant, low-fat soup packed with flavors from fresh vegetables, juicy tomatoes, and a blend of Creole-inspired herbs and spices, perfect for a cozy lunch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the recipe can be made vegetarian by opting for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How many calories are in this soup?
The specific calorie count is not provided in the raw data, but it is described as a low-fat and healthy meal option.
What are the main ingredients in this soup?
The key ingredients include margarine, green pepper, onion, garlic, broth, reduced-sodium diced tomatoes, sugar, and a variety of dried herbs like marjoram, basil, and thyme.
Is this soup spicy?
The soup has a mild kick due to the inclusion of a dash of cayenne pepper and black pepper, but it is generally balanced by the sweetness of the tomatoes and sugar.
What should I serve with Creole Tomato and Pepper Soup?
It is traditionally served with crusty French bread or rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.
How long does it take to prepare?
While the exact cooking time is not specified, it is described as a quick and easy recipe ideal for a weekday lunch.
Should I drain the canned tomatoes?
No, the recipe specifies using two 15-ounce cans of reduced-sodium diced tomatoes undrained.
Why is sugar added to the recipe?
Two teaspoons of sugar are added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall flavor profile.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The soup is seasoned with dried marjoram, dried basil, dried thyme, and bay leaves.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe calls for one minced garlic clove.
What type of broth is recommended?
You can use either low-fat chicken broth or vegetable broth depending on your dietary preference.
How much margarine is needed?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of melted margarine.
What kind of pepper is used as a vegetable?
One medium green pepper, seeded and diced, is used as a primary vegetable ingredient.
Is this recipe low in sodium?
The recipe uses reduced-sodium diced tomatoes and low-fat broth to help keep the sodium content lower.
How many bay leaves should I add?
The recipe calls for 2 bay leaves to be added whole during the cooking process.
Is this soup good for winter?
Yes, it is specifically described as a way to warm up winter days and serve as a comforting soul-warming snack.
What is the preparation for the onion?
One medium onion should be finely chopped before being added to the soup.
How much black pepper is included?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Can I use this as a snack?
Yes, it is described as ideal for a comforting weekday lunch or a warming snack.
Is the soup dairy-free?
Since it uses margarine and broth rather than cream or butter, it can be considered dairy-free (depending on the specific brand of margarine used).
What type of tomatoes should I buy?
Look for 15-ounce cans of reduced-sodium diced tomatoes.
Is there protein in this soup?
While the primary ingredients are vegetables, some protein will be provided by the broth (especially if using chicken broth).
How much dried basil is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil.
What is the amount of dried marjoram used?
One teaspoon of dried marjoram is added directly to the soup.
Does this soup contain fiber?
Yes, the green peppers, onions, and tomatoes provide dietary fiber.
Is this a Creole-style dish?
Yes, it is named and flavored as a Creole soup, utilizing the traditional base of peppers, onions, and garlic with specific herbs.
How much dried thyme is used?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme.
Is this soup gluten-free?
The soup ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your broth and canned tomatoes to ensure no cross-contamination.
Can I substitute the green pepper?
While green pepper is traditional for Creole flavors, you could use red or yellow bell peppers for a slightly sweeter taste.