Spicy Tomato & Chilli Mash Soup

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes

A rich, comforting tomato soup with a proper chilli kick. Add a tablespoon of chilli mash for a warming heat that cuts through the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes

• 500ml vegetable stock

• 1 tbsp chilli mash

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 100ml double cream, (optional)

• Fresh basil, to serve

• Crusty bread, to serve

Method

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.

2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, chilli mash, sugar and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for around 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Blend until smooth using a stick blender. For a creamier soup, stir through the double cream.

6. Taste and adjust the seasoning. If you like more heat, add a little extra chilli mash.

7. Serve hot with fresh basil and plenty of crusty bread for dipping.

Tip: The chilli mash can vary in heat, so start with a tablespoon and adjust to suit your taste. The tomato's natural sweetness works particularly well with a good chilli kick.