Now that the weather is really starting to get wintery and cold the only thing on my mind is soup. When it comes to winter comfort food there is nothing more welcoming that a steaming bowl of deliciously nourishing soup. Tomato soup is one of my all time favorites and such a guaranteed crowd pleaser however while I could eat it by the bowlful in the warmer months once winter arrives I need something more substantial and filling. This beautiful tomato, fennel and chickpea soup is wonderfully rich and filling and just what I need to face the cold winter days. Chickpeas give this soup not only immense substance but also a most deliciously smooth and creamy texture. Tomato, fennel and basil remind me of summer holidays and never fail to lift my spirits. Like all great comfort foods this soup takes just minutes to rustle up and freezes beautifully. So all you need to do is grab and spoon and enjoy a taste of Provence in the middle of winter! 
Tomatoes are a wonderful source of dietary fiber, vitamins as well as antioxidants and a veritable super-food. Tomatoes are best known for containing the antioxidant lycopene. Anti oxidants in general have been illustrated to have the ability to prevent the formation of cancer causing cells. Lycopene is believed to greatly reduce the likelihood of developing cancer of the prostrate. In addition it is now thought that the anti oxidants found in tomatoes including lycopene could protect bones from the development of osteoporosis. What makes tomatoes somewhat different from other fruits and vegetables it that they are best consumed cooked as this enables the release of their anti oxidants. Even more reason why you should make tomato soup!