Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Panera Bread Tomato Soup with this homemade recipe. This hearty soup is a perfect blend of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy goodness. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will warm your soul on any day. Whether you’re a fan of Panera Bread or simply craving a bowl of delicious tomato soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Serving: 4
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
- Calories: 250 calories per serving
Ingredients:
- 4 cups (946 ml) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (237 ml) of vegetable broth
- 1 cup (237 ml) of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (118 ml) of diced onions
- 1/4 cup (59 ml) of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of butter
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Blender or immersion blender
- Soup ladle
- Soup bowls
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
Step 2:
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4:
After 30 minutes, remove the soup from the heat. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Be cautious while blending hot liquids to avoid any accidents.
Step 5:
Return the blended soup to the saucepan and stir in the heavy cream. Heat the soup over low heat until it’s warmed through.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of tomato paste or simmer the soup for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip the blending step and enjoy the soup with diced tomatoes and onions.
- Serve the tomato soup with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top for an extra burst of flavor.
- This soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches or a crusty baguette.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 250 calories per serving
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 4g
Final Thoughts:
The Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe is a delightful way to recreate the comforting flavors of the renowned Panera Bread establishment in the comfort of your own home. With its velvety texture and robust tomato taste, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. So, grab a spoon, savor the flavors, and enjoy a bowl of deliciousness.
FAQ
Q1: Is this Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe vegetarian-friendly?
A1: Yes, this Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth.
Q2: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option in Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A2: Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of Panera Bread Tomato Soup. However, keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess and richness of the final result.
Q3: Can I freeze the leftovers of Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A3: Absolutely! Allow the Panera Bread Tomato Soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw and reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q4: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes in Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A4: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes in Panera Bread Tomato Soup. Simply blanch and peel the tomatoes, then dice or crush them before adding them to the soup. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the tomatoes are fully cooked.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables to Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A5: Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to Panera Bread Tomato Soup for added flavor and texture. Sauté them along with the onions in the first step.
Q6: Can I make Panera Bread Tomato Soup vegan by replacing the dairy ingredients?
A6: Yes, you can make Panera Bread Tomato Soup vegan by substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative such as coconut milk or cashew cream. Use vegetable broth instead of dairy-based broth and omit any butter.
Q7: How can I make Panera Bread Tomato Soup gluten-free?
A7: To make Panera Bread Tomato Soup gluten-free, ensure that the vegetable broth and tomato paste you use are certified gluten-free. Double-check the labels of any packaged ingredients to verify that they are free from gluten or any potential cross-contamination.
Q8: Can I add herbs or spices to enhance the flavor of Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A8: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, garlic powder, or paprika to add a personal touch and enhance the flavor of Panera Bread Tomato Soup.
Q9: Can I make Panera Bread Tomato Soup in advance?
A9: Yes, you can make Panera Bread Tomato Soup in advance. Prepare the soup as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q10: What are some recommended garnishes for Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A10: Popular garnishes for Panera Bread Tomato Soup include a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or a handful of croutons.
Q11: Can I use canned tomato soup instead of crushed tomatoes?
A11: While it is not recommended to substitute canned tomato soup for crushed tomatoes in this recipe, you can try using it as a base and adjust the seasonings and consistency to your liking.
Q12: Can I make Panera Bread Tomato Soup spicy?
A12: Yes, if you enjoy a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to Panera Bread Tomato Soup. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Q13: How can I make Panera Bread Tomato Soup dairy-free?
A13: To make Panera Bread Tomato Soup dairy-free, replace the butter with a plant-based oil like olive oil or coconut oil, and substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative such as coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
Q14: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs in Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A14: Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs in Panera Bread Tomato Soup. Keep in mind that fresh herbs are generally milder in flavor, so you may need to use a larger quantity compared to dried herbs.
Q15: Can I add cooked pasta or rice to Panera Bread Tomato Soup?
A15: Certainly! Adding cooked pasta or rice to Panera Bread Tomato Soup can make it heartier and more filling. Cook the pasta or rice separately according to package instructions, then add it to the soup when serving.
