Easy Homemade Tomato Soup: A Simple 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 incredibly satisfying. This guide will walk you through a simple, delicious recipe that you can whip up in no time. — Illinois Lottery: Latest Game Updates & How To Play

Why Make Homemade Tomato Soup?

  • Freshness: Homemade soup bursts with fresh tomato flavor.
  • Customizable: Adjust ingredients to your liking.
  • Healthier: Avoid preservatives and excess sodium found in canned versions.
  • Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than store-bought options.

Ingredients You'll Need

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in dried basil and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
  5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or basil to your preference.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, swirl in a spoonful of heavy cream or top with croutons.

Tips for the Best Tomato Soup

  • Roast the Tomatoes: For an even deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup.
  • Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The better the tomatoes, the better the soup.
  • Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness.
  • Add a Touch of Cream: A little heavy cream or coconut milk adds richness and creaminess.

Variations

  • Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
  • Creamy Tomato Soup: Stir in heavy cream, coconut milk, or cashew cream.
  • Tomato Basil Soup: Add a generous amount of fresh basil.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato soup is delicious on its own, but it's also great with:

  • Grilled cheese sandwiches
  • Crusty bread for dipping
  • A side salad

Making homemade tomato soup is a simple way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal. Experiment with different variations and find your perfect bowl! Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today!