The aroma of simmering tomatoes wafting through the kitchen is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine a bowl of creamy tomato soup, its vibrant red hue gleaming like a treasure waiting to be discovered, promising rich flavors that dance on your tongue. Serving it up with a side of crispy grilled cheese is like pairing the perfect wine with dinner – simply divine.
As I ladle the soup into bowls, I can’t help but reminisce about my childhood. There’s something magical about the way tomato soup brings families together, turning mealtime into an event filled with laughter and warmth. Whether it’s a rainy day or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to become your go-to comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious tomato soup is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- The flavor is rich and satisfying, perfect for warming you up on chilly days
- Its vibrant color adds visual appeal to any meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with sandwiches or serve as a standalone dish
Sometimes my friends tease me about my obsession with tomato soup, but let me tell you—it’s always a hit at gatherings!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Tomatoes: Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor; they are sweeter and juicier than out-of-season varieties.
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Onion: A medium onion adds depth; I love using yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked.
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Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they add a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness while adding rich flavor to the soup.
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Heavy Cream: For that dreamy texture; it enhances creaminess without overshadowing the tomato’s flavor.
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Basil Leaves: Fresh basil gives an aromatic touch; chop them finely or toss them in whole for bursts of flavor.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the vegetables while adding healthy fats and enhancing overall taste.
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Sugar: Just a pinch balances acidity; trust me, it works wonders without making it sweet.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste preferences for perfect flavor harmony.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Sauté Your Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent—around 5 minutes should do.
Add Tomatoes & Broth**: Toss in chopped fresh tomatoes along with vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until tomatoes break down beautifully.
Blend Until Smooth**: Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a regular blender), blend the mixture until smooth. You want it velvety—like liquid sunshine!
Infuse Flavor**: Stir in heavy cream, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes so all flavors meld together into creamy perfection.
Add Fresh Basil**: Finally, stir in chopped basil leaves right before serving; this will elevate your soup with fresh herbal notes that sing summer songs.
Enjoy this delightful bowl of joy paired with your favorite bread or grilled cheese! Each spoonful will take you back home—at least that’s what I tell myself when my friends devour every drop!
You Must Know
- Tomato soup is not just a cozy dish; it’s a canvas for creativity
- Add herbs or spices to elevate the flavor
- The aroma of simmering tomatoes fills your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere perfect for any meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add tomatoes and broth. Simmer until everything melds beautifully. This sequence builds layers of flavor that dance on your taste buds.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding a splash of cream for richness or fresh basil for brightness. You can even toss in leftover veggies for an unexpected twist, personalizing your tomato soup experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture and prevent sticking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best tomato soup, use ripe tomatoes for sweetness and depth
- Blend thoroughly for a smooth texture, and taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
- Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs or croutons to impress!
The first time I made tomato soup from scratch, my friends were skeptical. They thought canned was better—until they tasted my version and begged for seconds!
FAQ
What type of tomatoes are best for tomato soup?
Fresh ripe tomatoes provide sweetness, but canned San Marzano tomatoes work perfectly too.
Can I freeze leftover tomato soup?
Absolutely! Freeze in portions for up to three months without losing flavor.
How do I make tomato soup spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while simmering for a delightful kick!
Creamy Tomato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth of this creamy tomato soup, a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Made with fresh, ripe tomatoes and aromatic herbs, each spoonful brings back nostalgic memories of family gatherings. Pair it with a crispy grilled cheese for an unforgettable meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe is your ticket to a delightful culinary experience that elevates simple ingredients into a cozy bowl of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the tomatoes break down.
- Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. Aim for a velvety texture.
- Stir in heavy cream, sugar, salt, and pepper; let simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add chopped basil right before serving for fresh herbal notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
