Gazpacho Andaluz

Tags: #spanish #cold-soup #tomatoes #vegetables #summer Serving: 6 portions Total time: 30 minutes

Refreshing cold soup from Andalusia made with ripe tomatoes and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1kg ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves
• 100g stale bread, crusts removed
• 90ml extra virgin olive oil
• 30ml sherry vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Ice cubes
• Garnishes: diced tomato, cucumber, pepper, hard-boiled egg, croutons

Steps

1. Soak bread in water until soft, then squeeze out excess water
2. Combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic in blender
3. Add soaked bread and blend until smooth
4. Gradually add olive oil while blending
5. Add sherry vinegar and season with salt and pepper
6. Strain through fine mesh sieve for smooth texture
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours
8. Adjust seasoning and consistency with ice water if needed
9. Serve in chilled bowls
10. Garnish with diced vegetables, egg, and croutons

Notes

Use the ripest tomatoes possible for best flavor. Serve very cold on hot summer days. Texture should be smooth but not too thick.