Tomatoes are amazingly versatile and can be used in endless number of dishes as well as being great to eat alone. They are loaded with many, many health benefits. Keep reading to find out why tomatoes need to be a part of your regular balanced diet.
- Tomatoes provide essential antioxidants. Vitamin A, C and beta-carotene found in tomatoes work as antioxidants to neutralise harmful free radicals in the blood. The redder the tomato you eat is, the more beta-carotene it contains.
- Vitamin B and potassium in tomatoes are effective in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure.
- The Vitamin A in tomatoes keeps your hair shiny and strong. It is also good for your eyes, skin, bones and teeth.
- Tomatoes keep the digestive system healthy by preventing both constipation and diarrhoea.
However, those who have gall stones or allergies should eat tomatoes after consulting with their doctor and in moderation only.
Lets start the recipe of a simple and delicious soup with amazing health benefits!
Ingredients: ( for 2 )
- 4 medium sized tomatoes chopped
- 1 medium sized onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp oil
- 3-4 cloves
- 3-4 black peppercorns
- 1 inch cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- Chopped coriander leaves
- 1.5 cup water
Method:
- Heat oil. Add black pepper, cloves, cinnamon and bay leaf.
- After 10 seconds add chopped onions and garlic, and fry for 2 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes and tomato puree.
- Add roasted cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala and salt.
- Add 1.5 cup water.
- Pressure cook for 2 whistles.
- Open the cooker once the steam is released.
- Blend it with a hand blender and sieve the soup if you want it smooth.
- Put it back on heat. Taste and adjust the salt
- Add 1/2 tsp sugar.
- Serve it hot with freshly ground black pepper and chopped coriander leaves.