On December 6, we celebrate National Gazpacho Day a day to celebrate, chilled soup with a fresh, vibrant flavour. It’s tangy from tomatoes, crisp from cucumbers and peppers, and has a hint of garlic and olive oil. Gazpacho is a cold tomato-based soup, which is traditionally served chilled and made with fresh vegetables.
| 8th Century (Origins) | A popular origin theory for Gazpacho soup is the Ottoman Empire which was Arab based. |
| 1492 (Christopher Columbus’ Voyage Staple) | On his voyages from Spain, Christopher Columbus collected barrels full of Gazpacho soup. |
| 19th Century (Tomato Base) | The addition of tomatoes as a base and different peppers led to the evolution of the soup to it’s present state. |
| 1985 (Blanche didn’t like it) | Popular sitcom character Blanche from The Golden Girls mentions the dish on one of the show’s episodes. |
Classic Gazpacho Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups tomato juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to make:
- Place the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and garlic in a large bowl or food processor.
- Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to purée the vegetables until smooth. If using a regular blender, you may need to do this in batches.
- Stir in the tomato juice, olive oil, and red wine vinegar.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Refrigerate the gazpacho for at least 2 hours to let the flavours meld.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve chilled.
Conclusion
FAQs about Gazpacho
What is gazpacho?
Gazpacho is a cold Spanish soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, blended together with olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings which is served chilled and is known for its refreshing and vibrant flavours.
Can I make gazpacho ahead of time?
Yes, gazpacho actually tastes better after a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator as the flavors have more time to meld.
What can I use as a substitute for tomatoes?
If you need a tomato-free version, you can use a base of roasted red peppers or even watermelon for a sweeter twist. Keep in mind that this will change the flavour profile significantly.
Can I freeze gazpacho?
Gazpacho is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly after thawing, so you may need to blend it again to smooth it out.
What are some common garnishes for gazpacho?
Common garnishes include diced cucumbers, bell peppers, croutons, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add a splash of sherry vinegar or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavour.
Is gazpacho suitable for special diets?
Gazpacho is naturally vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Just ensure that any added seasonings or garnishes align with your dietary preferences or restrictions.
Can I make gazpacho with canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as canned tomatoes can sometimes be more acidic or sweeter than fresh.
How can I make gazpacho spicier?
To add some heat, include a small amount of finely chopped jalapeño or hot sauce. Start with a little and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavours.
What can I serve with gazpacho?
Gazpacho pairs well with crusty bread, tapas, or a simple salad. It can also be enjoyed as a light, standalone meal.
Also, read more about National Cranberry Relish Day – November 22, 2024
