Who doesn’t love a warm and comforting bowl of soup, especially when the weather is less than inviting? Tomato basil soup, with its creamy texture and aromatic basil flavor, is a perfect embodiment of comfort food. In this post, we'll guide you through a simple yet exquisite recipe for making this classic soup right at home. Whether you're looking to impress guests or just want to enjoy a cozy night in, this recipe is tailored to bring warmth and joy with every spoonful.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to whip up a batch of creamy basil tomato soup:
- Tomatoes: 8-10 ripe, large tomatoes or 2 cans (28 ounces each) of whole peeled tomatoes
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Basil: A good handful, fresh
- Vegetable Stock: 2 cups
- Cream or Coconut Milk: 1 cup for creaminess
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon to balance acidity
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps for a perfect creamy basil tomato soup:
1. Preheat and Prepare Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will be used for roasting the tomatoes to intensify their flavor.
- If using fresh tomatoes, slice them in half, remove seeds, and place them on a baking sheet with cut sides facing up. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for about 20-30 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- For canned tomatoes, skip roasting as they already have a rich, cooked flavor.
2. Cook the Aromatics
While the tomatoes roast, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Blend Tomatoes
After roasting, transfer the tomatoes into the pot with onions and garlic. Add the vegetable stock, sugar, and half of your basil. Let this simmer for 10-15 minutes to combine flavors. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender to purée until smooth.
4. Add Creaminess
Once the soup is smooth, lower the heat and gently stir in the cream or coconut milk. This step adds richness and a velvety texture to your soup.
5. Final Seasoning
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the remaining basil leaves, tear them into the soup for a fresh basil flavor, and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, with an optional garnish of a basil leaf or a drizzle of cream on top for presentation.
🔖 Note: If using coconut milk for a vegan version, ensure you use full-fat for the richest texture.
Variations and Additions
Here are some creative twists to personalize your tomato basil soup:
- Spiced: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a mild heat.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate spinach, carrots, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value.
- Cheesy: A handful of shredded Parmesan or sharp cheddar can make it extra decadent.
- Pesto: Serve with a dollop of pesto on top for an Italian flair.
🌟 Note: Experimentation with flavors can turn a simple soup into a gourmet experience. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Basil Soup
To ensure your soup stands out:
- Quality Ingredients: Use the ripest tomatoes or opt for high-quality canned tomatoes. Basil should be fresh for the best flavor profile.
- Blending Techniques: For a silky smooth soup, blend until all seeds are broken down. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse or remove some tomatoes before blending.
- Herb Balance: Basil is key, but don’t overpower the soup. It should complement, not dominate, the tomato flavors.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just reheat gently.
In this post, we explored how to make a comforting and flavorful creamy basil tomato soup from scratch. This recipe not only provides warmth and comfort but also introduces subtle yet vibrant flavors that can easily be personalized to suit any palate. From preparing the ingredients to the final seasoning, every step is designed to ensure you get the best out of each component, making this soup a timeless classic that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
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Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, you can use dried basil. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil for every cup of fresh basil, adding it during the simmering stage.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
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There are several methods to thicken the soup. You can cook it a bit longer to reduce, blend in some starchy potato, or use a slurry of cornstarch and water to achieve the desired consistency.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
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Absolutely! Freeze the soup without the cream or coconut milk for best results. Add these just before serving to preserve the texture.
What pairs well with this soup?
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A simple grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty slice of bread for dipping works wonderfully. For something lighter, a salad with fresh greens complements the soup nicely.
