Soup of the Week: Tomato con Azafran

Eric's 50th Soup

Over the weekend, we had a delicious tomato soup as the first course of an elegant 50th birthday party.  It had a hint of smokiness to it that I couldn't identify. 

When I asked Karen how she made the soup, she said it was very easy.  She sauteed onions, added good quality diced tomatoes, then cream and a blend of spices by Goya called SazonGoya, con azafran.

I checked our grocery store and found it easily in the big Goya section in the International aisle.  The box says "Inside this box you'll find what good cooks have always dreamed of, an absolutely fool proof way to make everything taste not just good, or even great, but sensational -- every time.  It's Sazon Goya, a special mix seasonings from Goya.  A little magic in little foil packets."

So, yesterday I made it for lunch:  one onion, a large can of diced tomatoes, the spice mix, and a can of 2% evaporated milk, instead of cream.  I didn't have fresh basil, so I sprinkled on a little dried sweet basil.  I didn't puree mine as much as hers because I tend to like a more rustic soup for everyday.

What is Sazon Goya Con Azafran?  I should have looked before I bought it.  Monosodium Glutamate is listed as the first ingredient!  Salt is second!  Dehydrated Garlic, Cumin, Yellow 5, Tricalcium Phosphate (anti-caking agent), annato (color), Mexican saffron, turmeric (color), red 40. 

Well, that's why my blog is about food adventures.  It tastes really good, but it isn't so good for you.  I am sure that I can figure out how to make my own spice blend...

B