Tomato Soup

Whenever the weather starts to cool, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Tomato Soup to cozy up with. I still remember the first time I made it; the rich aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs filled my kitchen, inviting my family for a comforting meal. It was a chilly afternoon, and I decided to whip up this classic dish, hoping to evoke the warmth of my childhood. With every sip, I could taste the love and nostalgia, a reminder of shared moments around the dinner table. The beauty of Tomato Soup lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a beloved staple in many homes. Whether paired with a crusty grilled cheese sandwich or enjoyed on its own, it never fails to satisfy. Let’s explore why this recipe holds a special place in my heart.

Shopping List for Tomato Soup

When it comes to crafting the perfect Tomato Soup, the quality of your ingredients truly matters. Fresh, ripe tomatoes and aromatic onions are the stars of the show, while herbs add depth and flavor. This wholesome combination creates a dish that is both nourishing and satisfying.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This healthy fat enhances the flavor of your soup while providing heart-healthy benefits.
• Salted Sweet Cream Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• Sweet Yellow Onion: Essential for a savory base, onions provide sweetness and depth.
• Fresh Garlic: Infuses the soup with aromatic notes, elevating the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the soup, providing a velvety texture.
• Tomato Puree: The heart of the dish, delivering rich tomato flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: Adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that intensifies the soup.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a well-rounded taste.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• Dried Basil: A classic herb that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
• Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Gives a little kick, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Bay Leaves: Infuses the soup with aromatic flavors.
• Basil (optional garnish): Fresh basil adds a pop of color and flavor when serving.

How to Assemble Tomato Soup

Making Tomato Soup is a delightful experience. As you combine the ingredients, the fragrant aromas will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone in. Follow these simple steps to create a bowl of soup that’s sure to warm your heart.

1. Start with a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter to the pot. Once melted, you’ll notice the rich aroma filling the air. This combination will create a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Next, toss in the finely diced onion and garlic. Sauté them for about five to seven minutes, stirring often. Look for the onion to become translucent, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
3. Whisk in the flour and continue to cook while stirring for two minutes. This will create a roux, thickening the soup and adding a lovely texture.
4. Slowly pour in the tomato puree, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Stir to incorporate everything well. You should see a vibrant red color emerge, indicating the goodness that awaits.
5. Add the granulated sugar, kosher salt, dried basil, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves. Stir occasionally as the soup begins to simmer. This is where the flavors start to meld together.
6. Lower the heat to medium and let the soup cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, and watch for bubbles forming – a sign that the ingredients are melding beautifully.
7. Once the time is up, remove the pot from the heat. Don’t forget to take out the bay leaves, as they’ve done their job enriching the flavor.
8. Now, it’s time to serve! Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh, thinly sliced basil. This adds a lovely touch of freshness and color.

Tips for Success

Creating the perfect Tomato Soup can be a delightful journey. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Storage: To store leftovers, place the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to five days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup in individual portions for a quick meal later. Just be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
• Pairing: Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination that everyone loves.
• Texture Preference: For a chunky soup, do not blend. If you prefer it smooth, use an immersion blender.
• Flavor Boost: Adding a touch of cream just before serving can elevate the soup to a new level of richness.

Perfect Pairings for Tomato Soup

When it comes to enjoying Tomato Soup, the right pairings can enhance your experience. Here are some delightful suggestions:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic combo is perfect for dipping and balances the soup’s acidity.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread is great for soaking up the rich flavors of the soup.
• Salad: A light garden salad pairs beautifully, adding freshness and crunch to your meal.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables complement the soup while adding extra nutrients.
• Occasions: Tomato Soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a comforting lunch option.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, this Tomato Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bowl. I encourage you to try this delicious recipe and enjoy the delightful flavors it offers. Gather your loved ones and share a bowl of this heartwarming soup; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your household.

Tomato Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Tomato Soup is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. This classic dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it's a dish you'll want to make tonight!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 3 tablespoons Salted Sweet Cream Butter
• 1.5 cups Sweet Yellow Onion finely diced
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Garlic minced
• 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
• 58 ounces Tomato Puree
• 32 ounces Vegetable Broth
• 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
• 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons Kosher Salt
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
• 0.5 teaspoon Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• 2 whole Bay Leaves
• 2 tablespoons Basil thinly sliced (optional garnish)

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Whisk
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Using a five to six quart stockpot, over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and butter.
2. Add the finely diced onion and fresh minced garlic. Cook for five to seven minutes, stirring often until the onion is translucent.
3. Whisk in the flour and continue to cook and stir for two minutes.
4. Add the tomato puree, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Stir to completely incorporate the tomato paste.
5. Add the granulated sugar, kosher salt, dried basil, cracked pepper, red pepper flakes, and whole bay leaves. Stir occasionally until the soup begins to simmer.
6. Lower the heat to medium and continue to cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove the soup from the heat. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh, thinly sliced basil.

Notes

• Tip 1: Adding a little sugar helps to neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Tip 2: If you prefer a chunky soup, you can serve it as is or, if you want a creamy texture, you can run the soup through an immersion blender or regular blender before serving. If using a regular blender, be very careful to blend in small batches.
• Tip 3: For an extra creamy tomato soup, add a little cream or milk.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.