Easy Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
Nothing beats a comforting bowl of tomato soup, especially when it's homemade. This guide will walk you through a simple, delicious tomato soup recipe that you can easily make in your own kitchen. Forget the canned stuff; fresh, homemade tomato soup is bursting with flavor and perfect for a cozy meal.
What You'll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather the ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Cream or milk (optional, for added richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect homemade tomato soup:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
- Blend: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids; vent the blender to prevent pressure buildup.
- Adjust and Serve: Return the blended soup to the pot. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in a splash of cream or milk for added richness. Heat through gently.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a swirl of cream, if desired. A grilled cheese sandwich on the side makes the perfect accompaniment.
Tips for the Best Tomato Soup
- Roast Your Tomatoes: For an even deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes.
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The better the quality of your tomatoes, the better your soup will taste. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice.
- Add a Touch of Acidity: If your soup tastes too sweet, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
Variations
- Creamy Tomato Soup: Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier soup.
- Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup: Roast the garlic cloves along with the tomatoes for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
- Tomato Basil Soup: Add a generous amount of fresh basil to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
Health Benefits of Tomato Soup
Tomato soup isn't just delicious; it's also good for you! Tomatoes are rich in:
- Lycopene: An antioxidant that may help protect against certain types of cancer.
- Vitamin C: An essential nutrient for immune function.
- Potassium: An important mineral for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Enjoy a bowl of homemade tomato soup and nourish your body while delighting your taste buds!
Serving Suggestions
Tomato soup is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve with a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
- Top with croutons, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Pair with a side salad for a light and satisfying meal.
- Serve as an appetizer before a main course.
Conclusion
Making homemade tomato soup is easier than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a comforting and flavorful soup that's perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! And don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – they'll thank you for it!
