Looking for a comforting and delicious tomato soup recipe to warm you up on chilly days? You’ve come to the right place! Our classic tomato soup recipe is perfect for those seeking a hearty and satisfying bowl of soup. Made with fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream, this homemade tomato soup will surely become your go-to comfort food. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this recipe is easy to follow and will leave your taste buds wanting more. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience!
Ingredients for Classic Tomato Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Classic Tomato Soup
- Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add the sugar, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir again to incorporate all the flavors.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- If desired, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches until smooth.
- Optional step: Stir in the heavy cream to add a creamy richness to the soup.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Ladle the hot tomato soup into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the classic tomato soup with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations for Perfecting Your Classic Tomato Soup
While the classic tomato soup recipe is already delicious on its own, here are some tips and variations to take it to the next level:
1. Add Some Herbs
Enhance the flavor of your tomato soup by adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano. These aromatic herbs will bring a delightful fragrance and depth to your soup.
2. Experiment with Spices
Give your tomato soup a unique twist by experimenting with different spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle heat or smokiness to your soup. Alternatively, you can try adding some curry powder or cumin for an exotic flavor profile.
3. Make it Creamy
If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk to your tomato soup. This will not only add richness but also mellow down the acidity of the tomatoes.
4. Add Some Veggies
Incorporate additional vegetables into your soup for added nutrition and flavor. Finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can bring a delightful crunch and vibrant colors to your tomato soup.
5. Garnish with Croutons or Fresh Herbs
Take your tomato soup presentation up a notch by garnishing it with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. These little touches will not only add texture but also enhance the overall visual appeal of your soup.
Feel free to experiment and adapt these tips and variations to suit your taste preferences. With a few simple tweaks, you can elevate your classic tomato soup into a truly memorable dish!
Conclusion
Tomato soup is a timeless comfort food that never fails to warm the soul. This classic tomato soup recipe is a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a bowl of warmth and deliciousness. With its rich and tangy flavor, velvety texture, and simple yet satisfying ingredients, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to cozy up on a chilly day or simply craving a comforting meal, this classic tomato soup recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try and let the flavors transport you to a place of warmth and contentment.