Snotty Noses Happy Parents Raising Healthy Kids by Dr Orlena Kerek, Paediatrician

You know those days when you just want a quick and  healthy lunch idea? Something that is SO easy and you know your kids will love? This spicy tomato soup recipe is my favourite "go to lunch".

As much as I love introducing new foods to my children, there are times when you just want some good old healthy favourites.

Spicy Tomato Soup is Super Quick!

If you're really struggling for time, skip the onions and it will be even quicker.

Add a jar of chick peas for some extra protein.

Fresh or Tinned Tomato Soup

The great thing about tomato soup is that you can use fresh tomatoes that are past their best or if you haven't got any, a tin will do. If I use fresh tomatoes I only chop out the really manky bits and the hard stalk. The rest gets thrown in. I'm too lazy to do such things as peel them and deseed them. The results seem to be fine for us.

The sugar is added as tomatoes can be quite acidic. The sugar helps to neutralise the acid. Honey can be used instead. If you’re using sweet summer tomatoes, you probably don’t need it.

Spicy Tomato Soup Ingredients:

• An onion
• 6 whole cloves
• 1 tsp tumeric powder
• 1 tsp chilli powder
• 2 tsp sugar
• 500g tomatoes or a large tin
• 200 mls of water or stock
• Salt as required

How to Make Spicy Tomato Soup 

1. Fry up the onion, add the spices (you can add black mustard seeds too but I never have any in the cupboard).
2. Add the tomatoes, sugar and the water or stock.
3. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Blend until smooth.

Introducing New Flavours to your Children

Getting kids used to strong spices is a great idea. Children learn to like different foods. If you’re children aren’t used to strong spices, you can start with just a little bit and over time add more and more.

If it’s a new taste for them, it’s a good idea to give them just a small amount first. I like to serve new soups in espresso cups. The kids don’t feel so intimidated if they only have a small amount.

I hope you enjoy this quick, easy and healthy spicy tomato soup recipe as much as my family does.