Easy Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe

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There's nothing quite like a bowl of warm, comforting tomato soup, especially when it's homemade. Forget the canned stuff – making your own tomato soup is surprisingly simple, and the flavor is unmatched. This guide will walk you through an easy homemade tomato soup recipe that's perfect for a chilly day or a light lunch.

What You'll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious batch of homemade tomato soup:

  • 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, but balances acidity)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh basil leaves, croutons, or a swirl of cream for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own flavorful 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.
  3. Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for at least 20 minutes. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For an even richer flavor, simmer for up to an hour.
  4. Blend (Optional): For a smooth and creamy soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be cautious when blending hot liquids!
  5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or basil to your liking.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, croutons, or a swirl of cream. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

  • Roast the Tomatoes: For an even deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs, then roast at 400°F (200°C) until softened and slightly caramelized.
  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
  • Make it Creamy: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade tomato soup is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • Grilled Cheese: The classic pairing! A warm, gooey grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect complement to tomato soup.
  • Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
  • Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.

Why Make It Homemade?

Making tomato soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and avoid the preservatives and additives found in many canned soups. Plus, the homemade version simply tastes better! The fresh flavors and comforting aroma make it a winner every time.

Conclusion

With this easy homemade tomato soup recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal any time. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create your perfect bowl of soup. Happy cooking!