Cold Spanish Tomato Soup

It's the end of Summer. As the days wind down...I present something new...A cold soup, which I don't usually endorse...but which I think you should humor me and try just the same..

It's actually called Salmorejo... It is a very typical cold tomato soup from the south of Spain. It's similar to gazpacho, but creamier, thicker, and more flavorful. The soup is perfect to bring to a party, as it can be made ahead of time.

Salmorejo is garnished with Serrano ham, or even better, Iberico ham, along with some hard boiled egg and bread croutons. The ham contributes flavor, the bread adds the crunchiness, and the egg gives the whole thing some texture. Make sure to invest in good ham, high-quality olive oil, and very ripe tomatoes.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2pounds ripe tomatoes
• 2 garlic cloves
• 3 slices of white sandwich bread or country bread
• 1/2cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1teaspoon salt
• 1tablespoon cider vinegar

Garnish

• 2tablespoons chopped Serrano ham (or prosciutto)
• 1 hard boiled egg, chopped
• Croutons

DIRECTIONS:

1. Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Make a cross with a knife on the bottom of each tomato and put them in the boiling water for 30 seconds, in small batches. This makes removing the skin much easier.
2. Peel and quarter the tomatoes, then put them in a blender. Add the garlic cloves. Soak the bread in water for a few seconds, squeeze it with your hands, and add it to the blender. Purée until smooth, about 3 minutes depending on your blender.
3. Open the blender and add the oil, salt ,and vinegar. Put the top on the blender and purée for 10 more seconds. Pour the soup into a bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Serve in individual soup bowls and garnish with croutons, Serrano ham, and hard boiled egg. Drizzle with olive oil. 

ENJOY!  EAT WELL MY FRIENDS!