Indian-Style Tomato-Ginger Soup

This recipe was inspired by Indian soups known as shorba. (“Shorba” comes from the Arabic word “shurba,” meaning “soup.”) Often simple, brothy, pureed soups, they are considered comfort food—the kind of soothing dish you’d find in home kitchens rather than in restaurants. In our version, we stir in garam masala, a blend of sweet, warming spices, to add depth of flavor and to complement the slightly acidic tomatoes and yogurt. If you happen to have ghee on hand, use it in place of butter for a subtly richer, more nuanced flavor. We like this soup served with warm naan for dipping.