Grandma'S Bread And Tomatoes
A hearty, comforting tomato and bread soup with simple seasonings, perfect for a quick meal or nostalgic family dinner, especially suited for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the large can of tomatoes and juice to a boil in a pot.
- Add the slices of bread to the boiling tomatoes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If available, add half a cup of leftover corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Simmer until the bread is soft and the flavors meld, about 10-15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier consistency, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to the tomatoes before adding the bread. If you don't have canned tomatoes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Stale bread works best in this recipe, as it absorbs the flavors without falling apart. For a twist, add some herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Bread and Tomatoes in deep bowls, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or grilled vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish. A glass of Pink Strawberry Punch can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread too soggy. For best results, enjoy it fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Bread And Tomatoes contains roughly 98 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 603mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just make sure to peel and chop them into chunks. You may need to add a bit more liquid, as fresh tomatoes contain less juice than canned. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, simmering until the tomatoes break down and meld with the bread.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Stale or day-old bread is ideal for this dish, as it absorbs the liquid without becoming too mushy. A rustic sourdough or a hearty whole grain bread can add extra flavor. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly first to help it hold its shape better in the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable for vegan diets. Simply omit any dairy ingredients, and you can enhance flavors with vegan-friendly seasonings or add a little nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The core ingredients—tomatoes and bread—are naturally vegan.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).