This warm tomato soup is a classic comfort food! It’s made with fresh tomatoes, a bit of garlic, and creamy goodness that warms you from the inside.
Sometimes, I just want to get cozy with a bowl and some crunchy bread. It’s perfect for rainy days or when you need a little pick-me-up. 🌧️🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is used for sautéing the vegetables and adds a lovely richness. If you’re out of olive oil, you can also use butter or coconut oil for a different flavor.
Onion: A basic ingredient that adds depth to the soup. If you have shallots or leeks, they can be good substitutes for a sweeter note.
Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are best for flavor, but canned tomatoes are perfect for convenience and still taste great. You can use crushed or diced tomatoes in a pinch.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth adds a hearty base to the soup. You can use water, but it may lack flavor. Use homemade broth if you have it!
Heavy Cream: This adds a creaminess that makes the soup so rich. For a lighter version, use half-and-half, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Tomatoes?
To really enhance the tomato flavor, it’s key to break them down while cooking. Here’s how:
- Cook the fresh tomatoes after adding them; this helps release their juices and sweetness.
- Using a bit of sugar can balance out any acidity from the tomatoes, making the soup smoother.
- Blend the soup until it’s super smooth. This creates a nice texture, making each spoonful enjoyable!
Don’t skip the simmering step! This lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.
How to Make Delicious Tomato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes)
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Croutons or toasted bread cubes, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tomato soup recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to cook, giving you a total of approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This is where the magic starts!
2. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the chopped tomatoes. Stir them well and let them cook for another 5 minutes. You want to break them down, releasing their juices to enhance the flavor.
3. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This softens the vegetables and blends the flavors beautifully.
4. Blend Until Smooth:
Once the soup ingredients are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy. Be careful with the hot liquid!
5. Season and Cream Up:
Return the blended soup to the pot if needed. If you want to balance the acidity, stir in the sugar. Then, season with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Adjust to your liking!
6. Add Cream and Basil:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, along with the chopped basil. Warm the soup gently, making sure it doesn’t boil. This step adds a rich, creamy texture!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot tomato soup in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and topped with crispy croutons or toasted bread cubes for that extra crunch. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
This soup’s vibrant color and smooth texture make it a cozy and comforting dish. Perfect for a chilly day or whenever you crave something warm and delicious! 🌿🍅
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great alternative and actually give you a similar rich flavor. Use two cans of whole peeled tomatoes for a convenient option!
How to Store Leftover Tomato Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes, just replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Also, ensure the broth is vegetable-based to keep it vegan-friendly!
What Spices Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of the soup by adding spices like basil, oregano, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Experiment and make it your own!
