How to Make Tomato Soup :
Winter’s chill is here, and nothing warms the heart like homemade tomato soup. The smell of tomatoes, onions, and garlic fills the air. It brings back memories of childhood and simple, delicious meals. We’ll show you how to make a creamy, tasty tomato soup that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
This recipe is based on Marcella Hazan’s famous tomato sauce. It uses simple ingredients like butter, onion, and tomatoes. You can use canned or fresh tomatoes. This soup is comforting and can be enjoyed all year, whether hot or cold.
This homemade tomato soup is special because it’s creamy without heavy cream. Butter and softened onions make it smooth and rich. It’s a soup that will make you feel warm and happy.
Why Homemade Tomato Soup Is Better Than Store-Bought
Homemade tomato soup is the best choice. You can adjust the flavor and texture to make it just right.
Homemade soup uses simple, healthy ingredients. Unlike store-bought, it doesn’t have additives. You can make it with butter, onions, and tomatoes, which are good for you.
With homemade soup, you can balance the flavors just right. You can make it sweet or tangy, depending on what you like. This is hard to do with store-bought soup.
Making homemade tomato soup is fun and rewarding. It’s a calming process that makes delicious soup. It’s good for your body and soul.
If you want a soup that tastes great and feels special, try homemade tomato soup. It’s better than store-bought because of its taste, flexibility, and the joy of making it.
Essential Ingredients for Classic Tomato Soup
Making a rich and creamy tomato soup begins with picking the right ingredients. Choose high-quality, flavorful tomatoes, whether canned or fresh. Onions and garlic add a savory touch. Butter, cream, and parmesan cheese balance the acidity and add a luxurious feel.
Types of Tomatoes to Use
For the best taste, use canned San Marzano or Muir Glen tomatoes. They have a deep, sweet flavor. If using fresh tomatoes, go for 10-12 medium or 2 pounds of ripe, juicy ones.
Aromatics and Seasonings
Onions and garlic are key for a savory base. The recipe uses 1 medium onion and 6 medium cloves of garlic. They’re sautéed in 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for extra flavor. Basil, sugar, and black pepper enhance the tomatoes’ taste.
Dairy Components
The recipe adds 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of heavy cream for creaminess. Adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream per serving makes it rich. Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami flavor.
By choosing and balancing these ingredients, you make a tomato soup recipe that’s both creamy and comforting. It will delight your taste buds with its rich flavor.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make tasty tomato soup at home, you need a few basic kitchen tools. You’ll need a big non-reactive pot, an immersion blender or regular blender, and a sharp knife for chopping onions and garlic. With these tools, you can easily make tomato soup and enjoy its rich, creamy flavor.
A big, nonreactive pot is the first item you’ll need. Stainless steel, ceramic, enamel-coated cast iron, and glass all fall under this category. Don’t use aluminum, cast iron, or copper pots because they can change the flavor of your soup. A pot that holds at least 4 quarts is best for simmering the soup.
To get a smooth, velvety texture, you’ll need an immersion blender or a regular blender. An immersion blender lets you puree the soup right in the pot. A standard blender works well for blending the soup in batches. Make sure your blender is strong enough to blend the tomatoes and other ingredients well.
The last thing you need is a sharp knife to mince the garlic and onions. These really elevate the soup’s flavor. To swiftly cut them, use a firm paring knife or chef’s knife.
Now that you have all the necessary cooking utensils, you can whip up a pot of home tomato soup. Everyone in your party will adore it to the point that they beg you to give them more.
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large non-reactive pot (4 quarts or more) | Simmering the soup |
| Immersion blender or regular blender | Achieving a smooth, creamy texture |
| Sharp knife | Chopping onions, garlic, and other aromatics |
How to Make Tomato Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
You won’t believe how easy it is to make homemade tomato soup. Time and a few of simple materials are all that’s required. For the best tomato soup, follow these steps.
Preparing the Base
Begin by cooking ⅓ cup of finely chopped onions in 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil until they’re golden. Then, add ½ teaspoon of finely chopped garlic and cook for another minute. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
Simmering and Seasoning
The next step is to add 500 grams, or around 7 or 8 medium tomatoes, to the skillet. Cook them for 8-10 minutes until they’re soft and their juices are released. Pour in 2 1/2 cups of vegetable broth, 1-2 teaspoons of kosher salt, a pinch of sugar, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Blending Techniques
After the tomatoes are soft, blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender, working in batches if needed. For an extra-velvety texture, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream.
And that’s it! You now have a delicious homemade tomato soup in under 30 minutes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, like Parmesan, croutons, or olive oil.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Creating the perfect creamy tomato soup is all about finding the right balance of textures. Whether you prefer a silky smooth or a more rustic, easy tomato soup, these tips will help you achieve the consistency you desire.
For a velvety, creamy tomato soup texture, use an immersion blender or regular blender. Blend the soup in batches if using a regular blender, being cautious of the hot liquid. To enhance the creaminess, stir in some heavy cream or grated Parmesan cheese towards the end of the cooking process.
If you enjoy a heartier, chunkier soup, skip the blending step or only partially blend the ingredients. Adjust the thickness by adding more stock or simmering the soup a bit longer to achieve your desired consistency.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the texture that best suits your personal preferences. With a little practice, you’ll be whipping up creamy tomato soup or easy tomato soup that’s perfectly tailored to your taste buds.
ancing Flavors and Acidity
Making the perfect tomato soup is all about finding the right balance. This balance is between the tomatoes’ acidity and the other flavors.
Sugar and Cream Balance
Start by adding a bit of sugar, about 1 tablespoon, to your tomato soup. This balances the tomatoes’ natural acidity, making the flavor more rounded. If it’s still too tart, add more sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until it’s just right.
Adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream also helps. Start with 1/2 cup of heavy cream and adjust to taste. The cream adds a creamy texture and smooths out the flavors.
Seasoning Adjustments
Tailor the seasoning after you’ve achieved a balance between the sweetness and creaminess. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste. The right seasoning brings out the best in the flavors.
If it’s still too acidic, try adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or a touch of balsamic vinegar. The Parmesan adds a savory taste, while the vinegar softens the acidity.
The secret to a balanced and tasty tomato soup is to taste and adjust as you go. With a bit of experimentation, you’ll soon be making the best tomato soup.
Variations and Add-ins
Make your homemade tomato basil soup even better by adding extra fresh basil leaves before blending. This gives it a bright, herbal flavor. For a deeper taste, use roasted tomatoes instead of canned ones. This adds a smoky and rich flavor to your soup.
Want a vegetarian version? Use high-quality vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Vegans can sub in olive oil or nut butter for the standard kind.
Feel like trying something new? Add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients can make your tomato soup taste unique and delicious.
| Variation | Ingredients | Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup | Tomatoes, garlic, red bell peppers, onions, basil, cream | 30 minutes | 4 |
| Vegetarian Tomato Soup | Tomatoes, vegetable stock, onions, garlic, herbs | 50 minutes | 6 |
| Vegan Roasted Tomato Soup | Tomatoes, olive oil, onions, garlic, herbs, plant-based butter | 45 minutes | 4 |
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
The technique of making tomato soup at home is only the beginning. To preserve its flavor and texture, it is important to know how to heat it and store it. Your quick tomato soup will retain its quality even after repeated servings if you follow the recipe to the letter.
Freezing Instructions
This homemade tomato soup is perfect for meal prepping or for enjoying at a later time because it stores nicely. Before storing the soup in sealed containers or bags, allow it to cool down. Up to three months of storage time in the freezer is possible.
Put the soup in the fridge to thaw the night before you plan to consume it. Reheat it slowly after that.
Best Reheating Methods
Reheating your tomato soup gently is crucial to keep its texture and flavor. The best way is to reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring now and then. This prevents the soup from boiling too fast and curdling the dairy.
If it’s frozen, thaw it in the fridge before reheating. You can also use the microwave, but do it in short bursts at 50% power. Stir often to avoid hot spots.
Make Tomato Soup
By following these easy steps, you can enjoy your homemade tomato soup many times. You won’t lose its taste or texture.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Make your tomato soup recipe even better by pairing it with the right dishes. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic choice. The crispy, gooey bread and cheese are a perfect match for comfort food lovers. Try dipping the grilled cheese in the best tomato soup for a special treat.
There are many other great pairings to try. Crusty bread, garlic bread, or crostini are all great for dipping. Add fresh basil, shredded parmesan, or crunchy croutons to your soup for extra flavor and texture.
For a more filling meal, serve the tomato soup recipe with a fresh salad. A chopped salad, tahini kale salad, or Caesar salad pairs well with the soup. They add a light and refreshing touch to the rich tomato base.
No matter how you serve it, the best tomato soup will always please your taste buds and warm your heart. Its comforting flavors and many pairing options make it a favorite in any kitchen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect homemade tomato soup is a fun journey. But, it’s key to avoid common mistakes. This way, your easy tomato soup will always taste great.
Temperature Control Tips
Keeping the right temperature is crucial. Use pots that won’t change your soup’s flavor. Also, don’t let the soup get too hot, as it can ruin its taste and texture.
When blending hot soup, do it in small batches. This helps avoid accidents and keeps the soup smooth and creamy.
Ingredient Proportions
Getting the right mix of ingredients is important. Don’t forget to season well. The right balance of tomatoes, sugar, and cream is key. Also, watch out for overcooking, as it can lose the fresh tomato taste.
By avoiding these mistakes and focusing on temperature and ingredient balance, you’ll make a delicious homemade tomato soup. It will surely please your taste buds.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 28 oz can of diced tomatoes or 3-4 lbs of fresh tomatoes |
| Broth | 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth |
| Aromatics | 1 onion, 3 garlic cloves, 1 bay leaf |
| Dairy | 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half (optional) |
| Seasoning | Salt, black pepper, dried basil or oregano |
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
Homemade tomato soup is not just tasty, but also packed with health benefits. It’s a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that fights heart disease and some cancers.
It’s also full of vitamins like C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients help your heart, immune system, and digestion. Plus, homemade soup has less sodium and sugar than store-bought versions.
For vegetarians, making tomato soup with vegetable stock is easy. This change keeps the soup’s rich flavor while fitting a plant-based diet.
A serving of homemade tomato soup (1 cup) has about:
- 222 calories
- 22g carbohydrates
- 7g protein
- 14g fat
- 40mg cholesterol
- 422mg sodium
Use less butter and cream to make it healthier. To make it vegetarian, just substitute vegetable stock. A delicious and nutritious supper option is homemade tomato soup.
Conclusion
With only a few basic ingredients, you can make this delicious homemade tomato soup. It’s great because you can change it up to fit your taste and diet. For example, you can make it low-carb or keto-friendly.
Whether you want a classic tomato soup or a richer tomato bisque, this recipe is your starting point. It teaches you how to make the best tomato soup at home. You’ll learn about the key ingredients, tools, and how to prepare it.
Start making homemade tomato soup and see how much fun it is. Try new flavors, add your favorite sides, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy cooking!