When the chilly nights roll in, nothing hits the spot like a steaming bowl of homemade tomato soup. This classic comfort food has its roots in 18th century Europe, where cooks experimented with the once-feared tomato fruit. Nowadays, the recipe is a simple yet delightful affair – just sauté onions and garlic, add ripe tomatoes, and let the flavors meld. Top it off with fresh basil, Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra cozy touch. Pair this velvety soup with a grilled cheese sandwich, and you've got a meal that'll warm you from the inside out. Want to take your tomato soup game to the next level?
Key Takeaways
- Prepare a classic, comforting tomato soup featuring ripe tomatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, and aromatic herbs for a cozy and flavorful meal.
- Blend the soup until smooth to achieve a velvety, rich texture that is perfect for warming up on chilly nights.
- Enhance the dish with optional toppings like fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream to add depth and contrast.
- Pair the tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread for a heartier and more satisfying meal.
- The simplicity and timeless appeal of homemade tomato soup make it a comforting and versatile dish to enjoy year-round.
History
Tomato soup has a rich and storied history, tracing its roots back to the early days of the tomato's introduction to European cuisine.
Once considered a poisonous fruit, the tomato gradually gained acceptance and popularity, becoming a staple ingredient in many classic dishes.
The origins of tomato soup can be traced to the 18th century, when resourceful cooks began experimenting with this versatile ingredient.
As the tomato's reputation shifted from suspicious to beloved, recipes for hearty, comforting tomato soups emerged across the continent.
These early versions often featured simple, wholesome ingredients like onions, carrots, and herbs, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Recipe
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed year-round. This simple recipe yields a rich, flavorful soup that's perfect for a cozy meal.
The key to making delicious tomato soup lies in the quality of the ingredients. Ripe, juicy tomatoes are the foundation, creating a vibrant and tangy base. Sautéed onions and garlic provide depth of flavor, while herbs and spices lend aromatic notes.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in the olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down.
Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For best results, allow the soup to cool slightly before serving.
Top with fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture. Enjoy your homemade tomato soup!
Cooking Steps
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Once it's melted, add the crushed tomatoes and stir in the minced garlic and your desired seasonings.
Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, until it's slightly thickened, then blend it until it's smooth and creamy.
Step 1. Melt Butter in a Saucepan
To begin, place a saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt slowly, stirring occasionally. The butter should become fragrant and slightly bubbly as it melts.
Be careful not to let it burn – you want a gentle, even melting. Once the butter is fully melted, it's time to move on to the next step.
Next, you'll want to add the diced onions to the melted butter. Stir the onions frequently, cooking them until they're soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
The onions will release their natural sweetness and start to caramelize, adding depth of flavor to the soup. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the onions from browning too quickly.
With the butter melted and the onions softened, you're ready to pour in the tomatoes and broth. Get ready to blend all those wonderful flavors together!
Step 2. Add Crushed Tomatoes
With the butter melted and the onions softened, you can now pour in the crushed tomatoes. Make sure to use a high-quality canned variety or even fresh, ripe tomatoes if you have them on hand.
The crushed tomatoes will bring a rich, tomatoey flavor to your soup. Stir the tomatoes into the onion mixture, ensuring they're evenly distributed. Allow the tomatoes to simmer for a few minutes, letting their flavors meld with the sautéed onions.
You'll notice the mixture start to thicken as the tomatoes cook down. This is exactly what you want – a nicely textured base for your tomato soup. Keep an eye on the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning.
The crushed tomatoes are a crucial component, providing the signature taste you expect in a comforting bowl of tomato soup. With this flavorful foundation in place, you're one step closer to a delicious, homemade treat.
Step 3. Stir in Garlic and Seasonings
After the crushed tomatoes have had a chance to simmer, you'll want to stir in the garlic. Mince 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic and add them to the pot. The garlic will infuse the soup with its savory, pungent aroma.
Next, sprinkle in a teaspoon of dried oregano and a half-teaspoon of dried basil. These classic Italian herbs will complement the tomato flavor beautifully. Don't forget a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper to taste.
Stir everything together until the garlic is fragrant and the seasonings are evenly distributed. Letting the garlic and herbs mingle with the tomatoes for a few minutes will deepen the flavors.
Now your kitchen will be filled with the comforting scents of this homemade tomato soup. You're well on your way to a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness.
Step 4. Simmer Until Slightly Thickened
Simmering the soup slightly is the next step.
Turn the heat down to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the consistency to thicken up just a bit.
You don't want it to get too thick – you're aiming for a nice, velvety texture. Keep an eye on it, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a gentle bubble.
The soup should reduce slightly and coat the back of a spoon when it's ready. Don't let it boil rapidly, or you'll risk the tomatoes splitting and the texture becoming grainy.
Once it's reached the perfect consistency, your tomato soup is almost ready to serve. Just a quick final step before you can ladle it into bowls and enjoy this cozy, comforting meal.
Step 5. Blend Until Smooth
Next, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the soup until it's completely smooth. This step ensures a creamy, velvety texture throughout the soup.
If using a regular blender, work in batches to avoid splatter. Be cautious as the soup will be hot. Once blended, return the soup to the pot. Stir to incorporate any bits that may have settled to the bottom.
This extra blending makes the soup silky and uniform in consistency. The smooth texture allows the rich tomato flavor to shine.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences. Achieving the perfect texture is an important step in crafting a comforting and satisfying tomato soup.
With just a few minutes of blending, you'll have a beautifully smooth soup ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
With the soup now ready, you can confidently serve it up and enjoy the fruits of your labor. This homemade tomato soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety texture and tangy-sweet flavor will have you coming back for seconds.
Don't be afraid to get creative with toppings and pairings. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a swirl of pesto can take this classic to new heights.
For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread. The possibilities are endless!
As you savor each spoonful, take a moment to appreciate the simplicity and comfort of this beloved dish. Homemade tomato soup is a timeless treasure that's sure to become a new family favorite.
Enjoy every last drop, and don't forget to lick the bowl clean!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Using canned tomatoes is a perfectly acceptable substitution. They're convenient, budget-friendly, and can provide the same great flavor as fresh tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
How Long Does the Soup Keep in the Fridge?
The soup will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Enjoy your homemade tomato soup whenever you need a comforting meal!
Can I Freeze the Leftover Soup?
You can definitely freeze the leftover soup! Simply let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It'll keep for up to 3 months, making it a convenient meal option for those chilly nights.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely add other vegetables to the recipe! Feel free to experiment with ingredients like carrots, celery, or onions to customize the soup to your liking. The possibilities are endless!
Is This Soup Suitable for a Vegan Diet?
Yes, this soup is suitable for a vegan diet. You can easily make it without any animal-based ingredients, using plant-based milk or broth instead. It's a versatile recipe that can accommodate various dietary needs.
