Tomato Soup
Indulge in the warm, comforting embrace of homemade tomato soup, a classic dish that evokes nostalgia with every spoonful. This vibrant and hearty soup is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience. Perfect for a quick lunch or paired with a grilled cheese for dinner, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
– Croutons for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): 150 calories, 8g fat, 18g carbohydrates, 3g protein, 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, cooking for 10 minutes until softened.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
8. Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Stir in heavy cream if desired, and heat gently.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and croutons.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes for convenience. Additionally, vegetable broth can be replaced with chicken broth for a different flavor profile. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Serving and Pairings
Tomato soup pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Enjoy it alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich, a fresh garden salad, or even some crusty bread for dipping. The options are endless!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the onions can lead to bitterness; sauté until just translucent.
- Not seasoning enough may result in bland soup; taste as you go.
- Using unripe tomatoes will affect the flavor; always choose ripe ones.
- Skipping the blending step can leave the soup chunky; blend for a smooth texture.
- Not letting it simmer long enough may prevent flavor development.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with different toppings like cheese or pesto.
- Make a double batch for easy meal prep.
FAQs
What type of tomatoes are best for tomato soup?
Ripe, juicy tomatoes are ideal for tomato soup. Varieties like Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are excellent choices due to their rich flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, high-quality canned tomatoes can also work well.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use less than you would with fresh. Typically, a ratio of 1:3 applies, so if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of dried.
How can I thicken my tomato soup?
You can thicken tomato soup by adding a roux, pureeing some cooked potatoes, or by simmering it longer to reduce the liquid. Cornstarch mixed with water can also be a quick thickening agent.
Is tomato soup healthy?
Tomato soup can be quite healthy, as tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds. However, watch the quantity of cream and salt added for a healthier version.
Can I add other vegetables to tomato soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions at the beginning.
Conclusion
Tomato soup is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether served alone or with a side, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Tomato Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- ½ cup heavy cream optional
- Croutons for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, cooking for 10 minutes until softened.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Stir in heavy cream if desired, and heat gently.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and croutons.