Homemade Tomato Soup: Easy & Delicious Recipe
Craving a bowl of comforting tomato soup? This easy homemade tomato soup recipe delivers rich flavor and creamy texture with minimal effort. Perfect for a chilly day or a light meal, learn how to make this classic dish from scratch!
Why Make Tomato Soup From Scratch?
While canned soups are convenient, homemade tomato soup offers several advantages: — Michael Benton Adler: Biography, Career, And Impact
- Fresher Taste: Using fresh ingredients results in a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Customizable: Adjust seasonings and ingredients to your liking.
- Healthier: Control the sodium and avoid unwanted additives.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 14 ounces tomato sauce
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in vegetable broth (or chicken broth), dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
- Add Cream (Optional): If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess. Heat through gently.
- Serve: Ladle the tomato soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil, a swirl of cream, or croutons, if desired.
Tips for the Best Tomato Soup
- Roast the Tomatoes: For an even deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven before making the soup. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes.
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of the tomatoes greatly impacts the flavor of the soup. Opt for good-quality canned tomatoes or fresh, ripe tomatoes when in season.
- Don't Skip the Simmer: Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Don't rush this step!
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: If the soup is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey to balance the flavors.
Variations
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: Top the soup with small grilled cheese sandwiches cut into croutons.
- Tomato Basil Soup: Add a generous amount of fresh basil at the end of cooking for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato soup pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches (classic pairing!)
- Salads (for a light and balanced meal)
- Crusty bread (for dipping)
Make It a Meal
Add a side salad and a grilled cheese sandwich to transform this simple tomato soup into a satisfying and complete meal. — Steve Sarkisian's Ethnicity: Uncovering His Background
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Leftover tomato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Enjoy Your Homemade Tomato Soup!
This homemade tomato soup recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food. With a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying soup that's perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and savor the taste of homemade goodness! — Bill Pentland: Everything You Need To Know
