Tomato Soup Recipe

Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of tomato soup. Growing up, my mom would make a big pot almost every Sunday afternoon. The aroma of roasted tomatoes and fresh herbs filled our home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It was more than just soup; it became a special ritual—a comforting embrace on a chilly day.

The magic happened in our kitchen when she combined fresh Roma tomatoes with vibrant basil and rich cream. As she chopped and stirred, laughter echoed, mixing seamlessly with the delicious scents. Those moments transformed simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Now, I carry on that tradition. This tomato soup recipe hearkens back to those sunlit Sundays. Using fresh Roma tomatoes and aromatic herbs, I recreate a dish that holds so many cherished memories. Welcome to a culinary experience full of flavor and warmth that invites you to share with loved ones. Dive into this easy recipe, and you’ll find yourself savoring the joy of togetherness.

Tomato Soup Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Starting with the basics, tomato soup brings comfort and flavor effortlessly. This recipe uses fresh Roma tomatoes, which provide a delightful sweetness when roasted. Together with crushed tomatoes, it creates a rich, deep tomato flavor. The secret to enhancing this dish lies in the herbs and seasoning. Fresh thyme paired with dried basil delivers an aromatic punch that elevates the soup.

Preparing the soup is equally straightforward. It involves roasting tomatoes, sautéing onions and garlic, and blending everything into a velvety texture. These steps ensure the final dish bursts with flavor, making every bite satisfying. With minimal ingredients, the emphasis remains on the quality and execution of each component.

Preparation/Setup

When preparing tomato soup, organization is key. Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F. This temperature allows the tomatoes to roast perfectly, concentrating their sweetness. Gather your ingredients: 1 ½ pounds of fresh Roma tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, unsalted butter, onion, garlic, fresh thyme, crushed tomatoes, and basil.

Roasting tomatoes is a pivotal step. Slice the tomatoes lengthwise and spread them across a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper ensuring even coverage. Roasting for about 45 minutes enhances their natural sugars, creating a rich base for the soup. While those tomatoes roast, you can move on to the stovetop preparation.

Ingredients

For a successful tomato soup, attention should focus on the ingredients used. Here’s what you need:

• 1 ½ pounds Roma tomatoes, sliced lengthwise
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons dried basil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ⅔ cup heavy cream

These ingredients combine to create a harmonious flavor profile. Fresh herbs and cream give the soup a luxurious finish, transforming it into a dish that feels gourmet yet approachable.

Directions

The direction for crafting the perfect bowl of tomato soup is pleasantly simple. Start by preheating the oven and roasting the sliced Roma tomatoes as described. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.

After the butter has melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about five minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and thyme, continuing to sauté for another five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Once the vegetables are fragrant, add the crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about ten minutes.

When the tomatoes are finished roasting, add them along with the chicken broth to the pot. Continue to simmer the soup for another fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally. The blend of flavors during this simmering stage is critical, as it further intensifies the taste.

After simmering, carefully blend the soup until smooth. This step transforms the hearty mixture into a silky texture. Once blended, return it to the pot and stir in heavy cream, allowing it to fully incorporate into the soup. Simmer for an additional two to three minutes before serving, ladling the soup into bowls and garnishing with fresh basil leaves.

Tomato Soup Technique

Technique

Perfecting the technique of tomato soup can elevate the dish to new levels. Each step requires an understanding of how the flavors and textures combine. The roasting process infuses the soup with a sweetness that cannot be replicated by fresh tomatoes alone.

Sautéing the onions and garlic in butter creates a flavorful foundation. The key is to keep the heat at medium-high when adding the onions. This step unlocks their natural sweetness while preventing them from browning too quickly.

Monitoring the simmering process is another critical aspect. Stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking while ensuring even cooking. Maintaining a medium-low heat prevents the soup from boiling over, preserving the creaminess of the texture until the final product is ready.

Tips/Tricks

Several tips can enhance your tomato soup experience. For instance, if you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding red pepper flakes during the sautéing phase. This element provides a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.

Utilizing high-quality canned crushed tomatoes during the cooking process will contribute significantly to the overall flavor. Brands with no added sugars deliver a more authentic taste. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable or out of season, these canned tomatoes can create a great substitute.

Lastly, the choice of chicken broth can affect the soup’s saltiness. Opt for low-sodium options, allowing control over the final seasoning level. Tasting the soup before serving enables adjustments that fine-tune the flavor to your liking.

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect tomato soup doesn’t just happen by chance; it takes a few adjustments to get the results you desire. Pay close attention to roasting times. Over-roasting the tomatoes can lead to bitterness while under-roasting may not fully develop their sweetness.

Texture plays a vital role as well. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only a portion of the mixture to retain some of the heartiness from the roasted and fresh tomatoes.

Additionally, using fresh herbs enhances the dish’s overall aroma and taste. If fresh thyme is hard to find, dried thyme is a suitable substitute, but fresh delivers the best results. Experimenting with different types of basil can also yield distinct flavors that alter the final profile.

Troubleshooting/Variations

Sometimes, things don’t go according to plan. If the soup tastes too acidic, a tablespoon of sugar helps balance the flavors, neutralizing tanginess. If the soup seems too thick, adding more chicken broth achieves the desired consistency without compromising flavor.

For those who want flavor variations, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of balsamic vinegar before serving. This addition can brighten the dish, providing an exciting twist to the traditional tomato soup experience.

Herbs can also be customized. Instead of simply using basil and thyme, try adding oregano or parsley for a different flavor profile. Mixing and matching herbs can keep this recipe fresh and exciting, serving up something new with each batch.

Tomato Soup Serving

Serving/Presentation

Properly presenting the tomato soup enhances its inviting nature. Serving it in warm bowls retains heat longer, which is essential for that cozy experience. A swirl of the heavy cream on top creates an attractive design and enriches the taste.

Fresh basil leaves should crown each serving for a pop of color and freshness. Complement your presentation with crusty bread or grilled cheese on the side for a classic pairing that invites everyone to dig in.

Pairings/Storage

Tomato soup pairs excellently with various accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or hearty sandwich, like a classic grilled cheese. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a delightful meal.

Storing leftovers is straightforward. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about five days or can be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Conclusion

Tomato soup embodies warmth and comfort, making it a beloved dish in many households. This recipe, rooted in tradition and simplicity, allows anyone to recreate that nostalgic feeling. With its straightforward preparation and robust flavors, it serves as a dependable option for any gathering.

Through careful preparation, the perfect technique, and thoughtful presentation, this tomato soup not only nourishes the body but also the soul.

Print