Easy Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe

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There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially when it's homemade. Forget the canned stuff; making your own tomato soup is surprisingly easy and tastes infinitely better. This guide will walk you through a simple and delicious recipe that you can customize to your liking. Get ready to enjoy a comforting classic!

What You'll Need

Before diving into the recipe, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, but balances acidity)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: heavy cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delightful tomato soup:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
  4. Blend: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids; vent the blender lid to prevent pressure buildup.
  5. Adjust and Serve: Return the blended soup to the pot. If you like a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as croutons, a swirl of cream, or fresh basil.

Tips and Variations

  • Roast the Tomatoes: For an even deeper flavor, roast fresh tomatoes in the oven before using them in the soup. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast at 400°F (200°C) until softened and slightly caramelized.
  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the soup. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
  • Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth and coconut milk to keep the recipe vegan.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with many accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:

  • Grilled Cheese: The classic pairing! A warm, cheesy grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect complement to tomato soup.
  • Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
  • Croutons: Add some crunch with homemade or store-bought croutons.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or chives for a burst of flavor and color.

Health Benefits

Tomato soup isn't just delicious; it's also good for you! Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are an excellent source of lycopene, which has been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Plus, homemade tomato soup allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding the high sodium and additives often found in canned versions.

Conclusion

Making homemade tomato soup is a simple and rewarding experience. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, ditch the canned soup and try this recipe today. Your taste buds will thank you!