How I Make the Best Tomato Soup You've Ever Tasted: A Step-by-Step Recipe
When the temperature drops, or I crave something warm and satisfying, nothing beats a cozy bowl of tomato soup. This dish combines simplicity with vibrant flavors, making it easy to adapt to your personal preferences. Today, I’ll share my favorite tomato soup recipe that has won over family and friends alike. It’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!
Ingredients You'll Need
Let’s gather the essentials before we jump into cooking. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tomatoes (fresh or canned) - Vine-ripened tomatoes are fantastic for taste. I use about four large fresh tomatoes along with two can (400 g each) of whole peeled tomatoes for a balance of brightness and rich flavor.
Onions - A medium onion adds depth to the soup, contributing to a well-rounded base.
Garlic - Two to three cloves create an aromatic experience that enhances the dish.
Vegetable broth - (946 ml) This forms the soup's backbone. For those not concerned about vegetarian options, chicken broth works great too.
Olive oil - Two tablespoons for sautéing the veggies and bringing everything together.
Basil - Use about a handful of fresh basil for an added flavor boost; dried basil can work in a pinch but use less.
Salt and Pepper - Season to taste, usually about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper.
Cream (optional) - A splash at the end gives your soup an extra creamy texture.
Let’s start cooking!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
To make the cooking process smooth, start by preparing your ingredients. Dice one medium onion and mince two to three garlic cloves. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
I recommend using a sharp knife to make this easier. Having everything ready will speed up the cooking process!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they turn translucent.
Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds a delicious foundation for the soup.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Now it’s time to add the star of the show. Toss in your chopped fresh tomatoes and your can of whole peeled tomatoes, making sure to include all the juice from the can.
Stir well and let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to break down and combine with the aromatics, creating a rich flavor base.
Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in 946 ml cups of vegetable or chicken broth until it completely covers the tomatoes. This ratio can be adjusted based on your desired soup thickness.
Add a pinch of salt and pepper at this stage. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Blend It Up
Once the soup has simmered, it’s time to blend! You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience or transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches.
If using a regular blender, let the soup cool for a few minutes to avoid splattering. Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Step 6: Season and Serve
It’s time for the final seasoning! Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If you'd like a richer taste, stir in a splash of cream. While optional, this adds a nice touch of luxury to the soup.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil or cream for that restaurant-quality feel.
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Soup
Get Creative with Add-ins: Consider adding in roasted red peppers for a sweet touch, or sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Pair It Right: Tomato soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches. You can also try it with crusty bread or quesadillas for a delightful meal.
Final Thoughts
Now you have a step-by-step guide to making the best tomato soup you’ve ever tasted! This soup not only warms you up on chilly days, but it also offers endless opportunities for personalization. Whether enjoyed alone or served as a starter with dinner, it’s sure to delight everyone around the table.
Give this recipe a go, and I would love to hear how it turns out! Don't hesitate to share your twist on this classic dish. Happy cooking!
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