If you’re in the mood for a bowl of warm, comforting soup that is both simple to make and incredibly delicious, look no further than this easy Tomato Soup Recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe will guide you through the steps of creating a rich and flavorful tomato soup that will satisfy all of your soup cravings. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal option. Get ready to enjoy a steaming bowl of homemade tomato soup that will warm your heart and please your taste buds.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
The first ingredient you will need for this simple and delicious tomato soup recipe is, of course, tomatoes. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are preferable, but you can also use canned tomatoes if you don’t have access to fresh ones.
Onion
Onions add a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the soup. They are commonly used in tomato soup recipes to enhance the taste and depth of the dish. Yellow or white onions work well in this recipe, but you can also use red onions if you prefer.
Garlic
Garlic is a must-have ingredient for tomato soup. It adds a rich and aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. Make sure to use fresh cloves of garlic and mince them finely for optimal taste.
Vegetable broth
To create a flavorful base for the soup, vegetable broth is used. It adds depth and richness to the overall taste. You can use store-bought vegetable broth or make your own at home, depending on your preference.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic. It adds a delicious and subtle Mediterranean flavor to the soup. Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for this recipe as it has a more robust flavor.
Salt and Pepper
To enhance the taste of the soup, you will need to add salt and pepper. These seasonings bring out the flavors of the tomatoes and other ingredients. Add them to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as necessary.
Sugar
A touch of sugar can be added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. This helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and creates a more well-rounded flavor profile.
Optional ingredients
While the above ingredients are the basic components of tomato soup, you can also experiment with additional ingredients to customize the recipe to your liking. Some popular optional ingredients include cream, basil, red pepper flakes, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top when serving.
Preparation
Preparing the tomatoes
Before using the tomatoes in your soup, it’s important to prepare them properly. If using fresh tomatoes, wash them thoroughly, remove the stems, and chop them into small pieces. If using canned tomatoes, drain the juice and give them a light crush with a fork or a quick blend in a food processor to break them down slightly.
Chopping the onion and garlic
Dice the onion into small pieces, ensuring they are evenly cut for even cooking. Finely mince the garlic cloves to evenly distribute its flavor throughout the soup.
Cooking the soup
To start cooking the soup, heat a large pot or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and heat it until shimmering. Then, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become translucent and start to soften, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, add the prepared tomatoes to the pot, along with the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and bring the soup to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Blending the soup
After the soup has simmered and the flavors have developed, it’s time to blend it to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup to a countertop blender. Blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency, whether you prefer a smooth texture or a slightly chunky one.
Variations
Creamy tomato soup
To make a creamy version of tomato soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the blended soup. Stir well to combine, adding the cream gradually until you achieve the desired creaminess. This variation adds a luxurious and velvety texture to the soup.
Spicy tomato soup
For those who enjoy a little kick in their tomato soup, you can add some spice to the recipe. Consider adding red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process. Adjust the amount of spice according to your preference and taste buds.
Roasted tomato soup
To bring out a deeper and richer flavor in your tomato soup, you can opt for a roasted tomato variation. Start by roasting the tomatoes in the oven until they are slightly charred and caramelized. Then, proceed with the regular cooking process, blending the roasted tomatoes with the other ingredients. This variation adds a smoky and intense flavor to the soup.
Tomato basil soup
For a classic combination, you can add fresh basil to your tomato soup. Finely chop a handful of fresh basil leaves and add them to the blended soup just before serving. The fragrant aroma and herbaceous taste of basil complement the tomatoes beautifully, elevating the overall flavor of the soup.
Serving and Storing
Serving suggestions
When it comes to serving tomato soup, there are numerous delightful options. You can garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil can be added for a touch of elegance. Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwich, or even some croutons for a satisfying and complete meal.
Storing leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Tomato soup can last for 3-4 days when properly stored. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
In conclusion, making tomato soup from scratch is a simple and delicious endeavor. With just a few key ingredients and some basic preparation steps, you can create a comforting and flavorful soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer it creamy, spicy, roasted, or seasoned with basil, tomato soup offers endless possibilities to suit your taste buds. Serve it with your favorite accompaniments and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this classic dish.
