As the colder weather gets closer and the season of comfort food is upon us, what could be better than coming home to a sensational soup?
This homemade tomato soup is a comforting and versatile dish, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or as a quick and easy meal. Customise it to your liking, and don’t forget to enjoy it with your favourite accompaniments!
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, chopped (optional, for added sweetness)
2 (14-ounce) cans of whole tomatoes (or 4 cups of fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
1 (14-ounce) can of tomato sauce
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for creamier soup)
Fresh basil leaves or croutons for garnish (optional)
Method:
Step 1 – Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot (if using). Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables become soft and translucent.
Step 2 – Add the Tomatoes: If using whole canned tomatoes, crush them with your hands or a wooden spoon and add them to the pot along with their juices. If using fresh tomatoes, add them now. Also, pour in the tomato sauce.
Step 3 – Season and Simmer: Stir in the vegetable or chicken broth, sugar (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
Step 4 – Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Step 5 – Add Cream (Optional): If you desire a creamier tomato soup, add the heavy cream or half-and-half to the pot and stir well. Allow the soup to heat through but avoid boiling once the cream is added.
Step 6 – Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar if needed to suit your taste.
Step 7 – Serve: Ladle the tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or croutons if desired.
