A hearty and flavorful soup featuring garlic, peppers, and tomatoes, perfect for a cozy meal.
Blanch the garlic in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then cool it under cold water and drain.
Blanching the garlic softens its flavor, making it less pungent and more aromatic.
Peel and slice the garlic cloves thinly.
Slicing garlic evenly ensures consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat, then sauté the onions and peppers until the onions are golden and the peppers are soft.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add the sliced garlic and chopped tomatoes to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
Adding the garlic at this stage prevents it from burning and turning bitter.
Cover the saucepan and simmer the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tear the bread into large pieces and add it to the soup, letting it disintegrate and thicken the broth.
Use stale bread for better absorption and texture.
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, then serve hot with grated cheese if desired.
Taste the soup before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.