Easy Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially when it’s homemade. This easy tomato soup recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch. It’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. — Ron Filipowski: Biography, Career, And Political Commentary
Why This Tomato Soup Recipe Works
This recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with rich flavor. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, while a touch of cream adds a luxurious smoothness. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it to your liking with different herbs and spices. — Tata Motors Enters The Rap Game?
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh basil, croutons, a swirl of cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Blend the Soup: Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or food processor. Add the vegetable broth and dried basil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids; vent the blender lid to prevent pressure buildup.
- Simmer: Pour the blended soup into a pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. If using, stir in the heavy cream. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, croutons, or a swirl of cream. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Tomato Soup
- Roast for Deeper Flavor: Don’t skip the roasting step! It brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The better the tomatoes, the better the soup. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: If your tomatoes are particularly acidic, a pinch of sugar can balance the flavors.
- Make It Vegan: Omit the heavy cream or substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Stir in a handful of fresh basil leaves during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup: Add a roasted red pepper to the roasting vegetables for a smoky twist.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Salads
- Crusty bread for dipping
Health Benefits of Tomato Soup
Tomato soup isn't just comforting; it's also good for you!
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers.
- Good Source of Vitamins: Provides vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and skin health.
- Hydrating: The high water content helps keep you hydrated.
Get Creative with Your Tomato Soup Recipe
This tomato soup recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and toppings to create your perfect bowl of comfort. Whether you stick to the basics or venture into new flavor combinations, homemade tomato soup is always a winner. — Phillies Sleep Out: Raising Awareness For A Cause