Cozy One Pan Tomato Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter or ghee
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 carrot, roughly chopped
• 4-5 tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 2 cups water or vegetable stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (Italian seasoning, thyme, or oregano)
• 1 tablespoon butter, for garnish (optional)

Method:

• Heat butter or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Stir in the ginger and garlic, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the carrots and cook for 2 minutes, letting them soften slightly.
• Increase the heat to medium-high and add the tomatoes. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until softened and releasing their juices.
• Pour in the water or stock, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Turn off the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and puree in batches.
• Adjust the consistency with additional water if needed.
• Strain the soup, if desired, for a smoother texture. Return the soup to the pan and bring back to a simmer.
• Stir in the sugar and dried herbs, and simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a pat of butter (optional). Serve hot and enjoy!