This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is more than just a comforting meal; it’s an experience for your taste buds. The blend of fresh basil, rich cream, and tangy tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that will make you crave for more.
Moreover, this soup is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this soup has got you covered. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple salad, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.
Tomato soup
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 yellow onions, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 56 oz crushed tomatoes, with their juice
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Directions
- Heat a non-reactive pot over medium heat. Add butter and sauté onions until golden (10-12 min).
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, basil, sugar, and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
- Return to a simmer and season to taste.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 222 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Tomato soup FAQS
To elevate the flavor of your tomato soup, consider adding a variety of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. Fresh basil, oregano, and thyme are classic herbs that blend well with tomato-based dishes. Moreover, a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream can add a luxurious texture. For a spicy kick, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce. Additionally, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil can add a finishing touch that enhances both flavor and presentation. For more inspiration, check out this article on 10 ways to upgrade your tomato soup.
Mary Berry, a renowned British food writer and television chef, has her own unique take on tomato soup. Typically, her recipe involves using fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chicken or vegetable stock. First, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent. Next, add the tomatoes and stock, and let the mixture simmer. Finally, blend the soup to your desired consistency and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. For a step-by-step guide, you can visit Mary Berry’s official website for the full recipe.
Although tomato sauce and tomato soup both have tomatoes as their primary ingredient, they are not the same thing. Tomato sauce is generally thicker and is used as a base for pasta, pizza, and other dishes. It often includes a variety of herbs and spices but is rarely consumed on its own. On the other hand, tomato soup is usually thinner and is meant to be eaten as is, often accompanied by bread or croutons. Furthermore, tomato soup may contain cream or milk to give it a smoother texture. For a detailed comparison, you can read this article that distinguishes between tomato sauce and tomato soup.
The thickness of tomato soup can be attributed to several factors. One common method is to add a roux, which is a mixture of flour and butter, to the soup. Alternatively, you can use cornstarch or arrowroot as a thickening agent. Some recipes also call for the addition of heavy cream or coconut milk, which not only thickens the soup but also adds a rich flavor. Additionally, reducing the soup by simmering it for an extended period can naturally thicken it. For more tips on thickening soups, check out this guide from The Spruce Eats.