Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, tomato soup is a classic dish that evokes feelings of home and nostalgia. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a light summer meal, this simple recipe showcases the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes. Served with a slice of crusty bread, it’s an inviting dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Optional: cream for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): Calories: 150, Protein: 3g, Fat: 7g, Carbohydrates: 22g, Fiber: 4g. This is based on a serving size of one cup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes until softened.
- Pour in vegetable broth and stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of cream if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes if they’re out of season. For a creamier texture, consider adding coconut milk or cashew cream. Additionally, vegetable broth can be replaced with chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Tomato soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a quinoa or couscous salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using underripe tomatoes can lead to a less flavorful soup.
- Not seasoning properly during cooking can result in bland soup.
- Overcooking the garlic can cause bitterness.
- Failing to blend thoroughly can leave a chunky texture.
- Using too much sugar can overpower the natural tomato flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Toast your bread before serving for extra crunch.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth.
- Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a great alternative when fresh tomatoes are out of season. They can provide a similar flavor and are convenient for quick meals.
How can I make my tomato soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water, or blend in some cooked rice or potatoes for added texture.
What herbs pair well with tomato soup?
Basil is classic, but you can also use oregano, thyme, or parsley to enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs added at the end of cooking can give a vibrant taste.
Is tomato soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid any added ingredients that contain gluten, tomato soup can easily be made gluten-free.
Can I freeze tomato soup?
Absolutely! Tomato soup freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, and it can be stored for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Tomato soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Whether served as a starter or a main course, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
Tomato Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 6 ripe tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Optional: cream for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes until softened.
- Pour in vegetable broth and stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of cream if desired.
