Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter
- 1 medium (110g) yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves (9g) garlic, minced
- 6 oz (170g) tomato paste
- 1 tsp (2g) dried oregano
- ½ tsp (1g) red pepper flakes
- 1 can (28 oz / 794g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken bone broth
- 1 tsp (5ml) balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup (225g) low-fat cottage cheese
- ¼ cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, packed
Instructions:
- Heat the butter or oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste to the center of the pot. Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes until the paste darkens to a deep mahogany color. Stir in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken bone broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, then stir in the balsamic vinegar.
- While the soup simmers, place the low-fat cottage cheese and fresh basil in a blender. Pulse until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Remove the pot from the heat to prevent curdling. Slowly whisk in the blended cottage cheese mixture until the soup is a pale, velvety orange. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.