tomato soup recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers deep flavor with minimal effort. It is the ultimate classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich. You will love how much better it tastes than anything you can get from a can.

This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a rich, velvety texture. It is perfect for chilly days or when you just need a bit of culinary nostalgia. In less than an hour, you can have a gourmet-quality soup ready to serve to your family and friends.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 185 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 680mg

Why Make This tomato soup recipe

Making your own tomato soup is a game-changer for your kitchen routine. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe allows you to control the salt and sugar content. You get a much fresher taste and a more vibrant color that looks beautiful in any bowl.

It is also incredibly budget-friendly and versatile. Most of these ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. It is a fantastic way to feed a group without spending much money or time standing over the stove.

How to Make tomato soup recipe

Getting this soup from the pot to your table is a straightforward process that focuses on building layers of flavor. Just follow these simple steps for a delicious result every time.

Ingredients

• 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes (high quality)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt the butter and add the diced onions. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine the Base

Pour the crushed tomatoes and the vegetable broth into the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Add the dried basil, salt, pepper, and sugar.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the tomatoes to soften further.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches. Be careful when blending hot liquids!

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream if you are using it. Let the soup warm through for another 2 minutes on low heat. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed before serving.

How to Serve tomato soup recipe

The most iconic way to serve this soup is with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. You can also top it with homemade croutons or a swirl of pesto for extra flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese or a few leaves of fresh basil adds a beautiful finishing touch to each bowl.

How to Store tomato soup recipe

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, let the soup cool completely first. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. If you plan on freezing it, it is best to leave the cream out and add it when you reheat the soup.

Expert Tips for Perfect tomato soup recipe

For the best results, use high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano. If the soup tastes too acidic, add an extra half-teaspoon of sugar to balance it out. Using a bit of butter instead of just oil adds a richness that makes the soup feel more luxurious. Always blend thoroughly if you prefer a silky texture, or leave it a bit chunky if you like a rustic style.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat. To make it vegan, swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. For a deeper flavor, you can add roasted red peppers to the pot before blending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You will need about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Roast them in the oven first to bring out their natural sweetness before adding them to the pot.

Q: How can I make this soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, let it simmer for a longer time without a lid to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can blend in a piece of crustless white bread, which acts as a natural thickener.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients in this base recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.

Q: What is the best way to reheat the soup?

Reheat the soup in a small pot over medium-low heat on the stove. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. Avoid boiling it rapidly if you have already added cream.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything except the cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then blend and add cream at the end.

Conclusion

This tomato soup recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy option for any day of the week. By using fresh aromatics and quality tomatoes, you create a meal that is far superior to any store-bought alternative. Enjoy the process of making it and the comfort of eating it!

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