Welcome to our delightful recipe for Creamy Tomato Soup! This classic dish is the perfect combination of tangy tomatoes and velvety smoothness, offering you a bowl of comfort and warmth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply crave a hearty soup, this recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this tomato soup is a crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Serving: 4
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
- Calories: 200 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups (950 ml) of ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil
- 2 cups (475 ml) of vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Blender or immersion blender
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Soup ladle
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot.
- Sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes
- Add the diced tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
- This step helps intensify the flavors of the soup.
Step 3: Simmer and Blend
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Using a blender or immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Be cautious when blending hot liquids and work in batches if needed.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings
- Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
- Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Continue to cook the soup on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
Tips and Tricks
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of dried basil or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Customize your soup by adding cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, or grated Parmesan cheese as toppings.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for future enjoyment.
- Experiment with different tomato varieties for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 200 per serving
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
Indulge in the creamy goodness of our Tomato Soup recipe whenever you’re in need of a comforting and flavorful meal. The combination of ripe tomatoes, sautéed aromatics, and a touch of cream creates a bowl of soup that will warm your heart and soul. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab a spoon, savor every spoonful, and let this Creamy Tomato Soup transport you to a world of deliciousness.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones in Creamy Tomato Soup?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh tomatoes in Creamy Tomato Soup. Just make sure to choose high-quality canned tomatoes without any added flavors or seasonings.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative in Creamy Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream in Creamy Tomato Soup for a lighter version of the soup. However, keep in mind that the richness and creaminess may be slightly reduced.
Can I make Creamy Tomato Soup in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare Creamy Tomato Soup in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze Creamy Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Tomato Soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Remember to leave some headspace for expansion. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it on the stovetop.
Can I add other vegetables to Creamy Tomato Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to add depth and flavor to Creamy Tomato Soup. Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic in the first step.
What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Soup?
Creamy Tomato Soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Classic options include grilled cheese sandwiches, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. Get creative and experiment with your favorite combinations.
Can I make Creamy Tomato Soup spicy?
Yes, you can add a kick of spice to Creamy Tomato Soup by incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of heat.
Is Creamy Tomato Soup suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Creamy Tomato Soup is suitable for vegetarians. However, if you’re looking to make it vegan, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones in Creamy Tomato Soup?
Yes, dried herbs can be used as a substitute for fresh herbs in Creamy Tomato Soup. However, keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent, so you’ll need to use smaller quantities. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
Can I add meat to Creamy Tomato Soup?
While Creamy Tomato Soup is vegetarian-friendly, you can certainly add cooked meat such as shredded chicken or crumbled bacon to it for added protein and flavor. Simply stir it into the soup during the final step.
How can I make Creamy Tomato Soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker Creamy Tomato Soup, you can simmer it for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Additionally, you can add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste during the cooking process to enhance the thickness.
Can I use an immersion blender instead of a regular blender for Creamy Tomato Soup?
Yes, an immersion blender is a convenient tool for blending Creamy Tomato Soup directly in the pot. It saves you the trouble of transferring hot liquid to a blender. Simply immerse the blender into the pot and blend until smooth.
Can I use this Creamy Tomato Soup recipe as a base for other soups?
Absolutely! This Creamy Tomato Soup recipe serves as a versatile base for various adaptations. You can add other ingredients like roasted vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own unique soup creations.
Can I adjust the sweetness of Creamy Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of Creamy Tomato Soup by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preferences. Start with the suggested amount and gradually increase or decrease to achieve your desired balance.
Can I make Creamy Tomato Soup without onions and garlic?
While onions and garlic contribute to the flavor profile of Creamy Tomato Soup, you can omit them if necessary. The soup will still have the essence of tomatoes, but it may lack the depth and complexity that the aromatics provide.
