There's something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of homemade tomato soup. With its vibrant color, rich flavor, and the flexibility to be served as either a starter or a main dish, tomato soup is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you're seeking warmth during a chilly winter evening or a light yet satisfying lunch option, this homemade tomato soup recipe will delight your taste buds. Here's how you can whip up this easy and delicious soup in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Homemade Tomato Soup
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need:
- 8-10 medium ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for creaminess)
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the Tomatoes
- Rinse the tomatoes under cold water.
- Core the tomatoes to remove the stem.
- Roughly chop the tomatoes into quarters or halves.
🍅 Note: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can remove the tomato skins by blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transferring them to ice water. The skins should peel off easily.
2. Cooking the Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrot. Sauté until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Simmering the Soup
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, along with the vegetable or chicken broth.
- Stir in the sugar, dried basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down and the flavors have melded together.
- If you are using fresh basil, add it in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Blending the Soup
- Let the soup cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender or use an immersion blender to purée until smooth. Be careful with hot liquids in a blender; do it in batches if necessary.
- If using heavy cream, return the soup to the pot, stir in the cream, and heat through without boiling.
🧊 Note: For an even silkier texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh strainer to remove any remaining seeds or skin after blending.
5. Final Touches
- Stir in the optional butter for additional richness.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar to taste.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with a swirl of cream or fresh basil leaves.
The beauty of this homemade tomato soup lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavors derived from the interplay of fresh, ripe tomatoes with aromatic herbs and a touch of sweetness. This soup not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it a perfect choice for any time of the year. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting solo meal or pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches, it's a dish that invites you to slow down and savor each spoonful. Remember, the essence of good cooking often resides in using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and this tomato soup exemplifies that principle beautifully.
Can I make this soup with canned tomatoes?
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Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Ensure to use good quality canned tomatoes with minimal added ingredients for the best flavor.
How can I make this soup vegan?
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Skip the butter and cream; instead, use olive oil and coconut milk or cashew cream to give it a creamy texture.
What can I do to enhance the flavor of the soup?
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A splash of balsamic vinegar or a piece of Parmigiano Reggiano rind added during cooking can deepen the flavors significantly.
