​Cold spring weather can be chilly, damp, and unpredictable, often bringing a mix of rain, wind, and lingering cool temperatures. To warm up during this season, you can enjoy comforting, nutrient-rich foods that boost circulation, provide energy, and strengthen immunity.

​Spicy Tomato and Bell Pepper Soup


​​This spicy soup is a perfect balance of heat and depth. With the richness of tomatoes and bell peppers, combined with the warmth of chili and smoked paprika, it offers a comforting yet fiery kick. A touch of cream adds a smooth finish, while fresh cilantro brightens the dish, making it a satisfying and bold choice for any meal.

​Hearty broths with vegetables, beans, lentils, or lean meats (like chicken soup) help retain body heat.
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  • A sizzling sound as the vegetables hit the hot oil.
  • The chili peppers gently infusing the broth with a fiery glow.
  • The steam rising from the bowl, swirling in gentle loops that fill the air with spicy warmth.
  • A slow-motion shot of a spoon stirring the soup, the broth twirling in soft spirals, creating a mesmerizing visual dance of color.
  • And finally, the steam rising from the soup, as if inviting you to take a sip.
​Ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1-2 fresh red chili peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cream (optional, for a creamy finish)
Instructions:
  1. Heat oil in a large pot: Add chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili flakes. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in chopped tomatoes, then add vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Cook the soup: Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken.
  5. Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or blend in batches in a blender.
  6. Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili if you prefer extra heat.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, a drizzle of cream, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Imagine this:
You walk into a cozy kitchen, the warm aroma of spices fills the air. As you stand by the stove, a pot simmers gently, releasing an enticing, smoky scent. The soup's deep red color, vibrant with the essence of tomatoes and bell peppers, glows in the soft kitchen light. You see chunks of fresh vegetables and a hint of heat from the red chili peppers peeking through.

As the spoon stirs the soup, steam rises in delicate swirls, and with each pass, the rich and spicy broth dances in the air. The fresh cilantro, sprinkled on top like a burst of green, contrasts against the vibrant red hue. A drizzle of cream flows into the soup like a cloud, swirling and mixing, softening the intensity of the chili. A few chili flakes are tossed into the mix, giving the soup that extra bit of fiery kick.
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The soup simmers just below the boil, the vegetables and spices harmonizing into a deeply satisfying blend. The heat from the chili starts to settle in your senses, creating warmth from within as you anticipate the first spoonful.