Kentucky-style Tomato Soup

Ingredients

In this Kentucky-style adaptation, the traditional Polish Zupa pomidorowa is enhanced with Southern ingredients and flavors. The addition of smoky bacon and a touch of bourbon adds a distinct Southern twist to the soup. The soup is also served with cornbread, a staple in Southern cuisine, instead of the traditional Polish accompaniments. We alse have the original recipe for Zupa pomidorowa, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 pounds (900g) ripe tomatoes, diced 2 pounds (900g) ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) tomato paste 1 tablespoon (15ml) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) bourbon 1 tablespoon (15ml) bourbon
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) sugar 1 teaspoon (5ml) sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped bacon to the pot and cook until it turns crispy and releases its fat.
3. 3.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
4. 4.
   Pour in the bourbon and let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
5. 5.
   Add the chicken or vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
7. 7.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   Serve the Kentucky-style Tomato Soup hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bacon — Choose a smoky bacon variety to enhance the Southern flavors of the soup.
• Bourbon — Use a good-quality bourbon to add a subtle depth of flavor. If you prefer to omit alcohol, you can substitute it with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some diced tomatoes before pureeing the soup and add them back in at the end.
• Serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for added richness.

Serving advice

Serve the Kentucky-style Tomato Soup as a comforting main course alongside a slice of warm cornbread. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or a side of collard greens for a complete Southern-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprig of fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in individual bowls or rustic soup mugs for a cozy and inviting presentation.