Tomato soup is a comforting, classic dish that never goes out of style. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a cozy rainy day, this creamy tomato soup is the perfect bowl of comfort. Packed with rich tomato flavors and the velvety smoothness of cream, it can be made in just a few simple steps, making it an ideal meal for busy days or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, offering a perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and creamy texture.
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Why Tomato Soup is the Perfect Comfort Food
Tomato soup stands out as one of the most beloved dishes, and for good reason. It’s quick, simple, and versatile, which makes it a fantastic choice for any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a starter, pairing it with grilled cheese, or enjoying it as a standalone dish, tomato soup is sure to please every palate. This particular recipe is made even better with the addition of heavy cream, creating a smooth, rich soup that is just as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
To make this creamy tomato soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- Canned Tomatoes: Provides the base for the soup with a deep, rich flavor.
- Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the soup for a creamy consistency.
- Yellow Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Garlic: A flavorful addition that infuses the soup with an aromatic, savory essence.
- Vegetable Broth: Creates the right base for the soup, allowing the tomato flavors to shine.
- Heavy Cream: Makes the soup creamy, smooth, and rich in texture.
- Butter: Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic for maximum flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
- Fresh Basil or Dried Italian Herbs: Adds a fragrant herbal note, elevating the overall taste.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for alternative ingredients or substitutions, here are a few options:
- For a lighter version: Use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup without sacrificing the creamy texture.
- For a dairy-free version: Swap the heavy cream with almond milk or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
- If you don’t have canned tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes can be used, though they might require more time to break down into a smooth consistency.
- For added flavor: Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist or some chili flakes for a little heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomatoes: Add the canned tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Let the mixture cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Finish the soup: Return the soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil or Italian herbs. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips & Tricks
- Check the consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Enhance the flavor: For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This adds a caramelized sweetness to the dish.
- Storage: Leftover tomato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This creamy tomato soup pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and toppings. Consider serving it with:
- Grilled Cheese: A classic pairing that never fails. The gooey cheese and crispy bread complement the creamy soup perfectly.
- Basil Pesto: Swirl in some fresh basil pesto for an added layer of flavor.
- Croutons: For a bit of crunch, top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons.
If you want to try a variation, you can make the soup spicier by adding red pepper flakes, or you could switch up the herbs by using thyme or oregano. For a seasonal twist, you can add roasted pumpkin during the fall to make a creamy tomato-pumpkin soup.
Health Benefits of Tomato Soup
Tomato soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease. By making this soup at home, you can control the ingredients and create a nutritious meal without any preservatives or excess sugar that may be found in store-bought versions.
With this creamy tomato soup recipe, you can enjoy the warm, comforting taste of homemade soup any time of year. It’s a perfect dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike, and its simple yet delicious flavor will make it a go-to recipe in your kitchen for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this creamy tomato soup recipe offers the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light meal or pairing it with a grilled cheese for a classic combo, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its rich tomato base, creamy texture, and quick preparation, it’s an ideal option for busy days or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences. Try it out today and experience the joy of homemade creamy tomato soup!
FAQ
1. Can I make tomato soup without cream?
Yes, you can make tomato soup without cream! To achieve a creamy texture without the cream, you can substitute with coconut milk, cashew cream, or blend in some cooked potatoes. These alternatives will still give the soup a rich, smooth consistency.
2. How do I make tomato soup less tangy?
If your tomato soup turns out too tangy, you can balance the flavor by adding a pinch of sugar or a splash of honey. You can also reduce the acidity by adding a bit of baking soda while simmering the soup.
3. Can I freeze leftover tomato soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover tomato soup! Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat on the stove over low heat.
More Relevant Recipes
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Tomato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy tomato soup is a comforting, classic dish that combines rich tomato flavors with a smooth, velvety texture. Made with canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, and heavy cream, it’s a perfect dish for chilly days and a great meal for all ages.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stir to combine, and cook for 10 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or transfer to a regular blender in batches.
- Return the soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil or Italian herbs. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil or croutons, if desired.
Notes
- If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup until completely smooth using a high-speed blender.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
