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Classic Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe: A Comforting Delight

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of homemade tomato soup. Whether it’s the warmth it brings on a chilly day or the nostalgic flavors reminiscent of childhood, this classic dish holds a special place in many hearts. Our recipe for classic homemade tomato soup strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and depth of flavor, using fresh ingredients to create a soup that’s both comforting and satisfying. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Begin by preparing your ingredients. If using fresh tomatoes, wash and chop them into small pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes with their juice), sugar (if using), dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The tomatoes should be very soft and the flavors well combined.
  5. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Return the soup to the pot if using a blender.
  6. Add Cream (Optional): For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream. Warm the soup through, but don’t let it boil after adding the cream.
  7. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.
  8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with your choice of accompaniments.

Serving Suggestions

  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the crispy, buttery bread and melted cheese complement the tomato soup beautifully.
  • Croutons: Add a crunchy texture to your soup with a handful of homemade or store-bought croutons.
  • Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil, parsley, or chives adds a pop of colour and flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Tomato Soup

  • Fresh Tomatoes: For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. However, high-quality canned tomatoes can be a great substitute, especially outside of tomato season.
  • Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more broth for a thinner consistency or simmering it longer for a thicker soup.
  • Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.

Enjoy the simple pleasure of a bowl of homemade tomato soup, a dish that warms the soul and delights the taste buds with every spoonful.

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