If you crave a warm, comforting bowl of soup, look no further! My creamy tomato basil soup recipe is simple and oh-so-tasty. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish delivers rich flavor and creamy goodness. Let’s dive into the details and make magic in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Full Recipe Overview
To make creamy tomato basil soup, you need fresh and simple ingredients. This soup brings warmth and comfort to any meal. You can prepare it in about 35 minutes.
Detailed Ingredients List
Here’s what you will need:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes (or 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
These ingredients create a rich flavor and creamy texture. Fresh basil adds a nice touch at the end.
Potential Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some swaps:
– Use canola oil instead of olive oil.
– Swap in shallots for onion.
– For garlic powder, use 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
– Use chicken broth if you don’t have vegetable broth.
– Coconut cream can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
These options help you make the soup with what you have on hand. Enjoy the cooking process and feel free to experiment!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need olive oil, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, heavy cream, sugar, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh basil leaves. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This step is key for great flavor in your soup.
Cooking Process
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is soft and clear. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until it smells great. Now add your diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Bring this mix to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend together.
Blending for Texture
After simmering, it’s time to blend the soup. You can use an immersion blender right in the pot for ease. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender. Blend it until smooth, then return it to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), sugar, and dried oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer on low for another 5 minutes. This final touch makes your soup creamy and rich. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your creamy tomato basil soup shine, use fresh ingredients. Fresh basil adds a bright touch. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar. This gives a nice tang. If you like spice, try adding red pepper flakes. You can also mix in a bit of Parmesan cheese for depth. A pinch of smoked paprika can add a warm, smoky flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the garlic. Cook it just until fragrant. If it burns, the soup can taste bitter. Another mistake is using low-quality canned tomatoes. Choose high-quality, whole tomatoes for the best flavor. Don’t skip the sugar; it balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Lastly, don’t rush the simmering time. Let the soup cook long enough to blend all the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your soup hot with crusty bread. A grilled cheese sandwich pairs well, too. For a twist, add a dollop of pesto on top. You can also sprinkle some croutons for crunch. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil. This adds color and extra flavor. For a full meal, serve it with a light salad. Enjoy your delicious bowl of creamy tomato basil soup!
Variations
Gluten-Free Options
You can easily make this creamy tomato basil soup gluten-free. Start by ensuring your broth is gluten-free. Most vegetable broths are safe, but always check the label. Use fresh or canned tomatoes, as they are naturally gluten-free. The heavy cream or coconut cream is also gluten-free. Enjoy a bowl without worry!
Vegan Adaptations
To make this soup vegan, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Both options give a rich texture. Use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. You can also skip the sugar or use maple syrup for a sweet touch. This way, you keep the flavor while sticking to a vegan diet.
Additional Add-Ins
Want to jazz up your soup? Here are some fun ideas:
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
– Stir in some cooked quinoa for extra protein.
– Toss in spinach or kale for added greens.
– For a richer taste, add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
These add-ins make your soup even more exciting and flavorful!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
After making this creamy tomato basil soup, let it cool. Once cool, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to five days. Always keep it covered to maintain its fresh taste. Before serving, check for any signs of spoilage. If it smells off, it’s best to toss it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This keeps the flavors intact.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot over medium heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. Heat until warm, but don’t boil it. If it seems too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water. You can also use the microwave if you prefer. Heat it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute. Enjoy it hot for the best taste!
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How do I make creamy tomato basil soup from scratch?
To make creamy tomato basil soup, start by heating olive oil in a pot. Add chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. Next, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 more minutes. Then, stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Simmer for 15 minutes to blend flavors. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Add heavy cream, sugar, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 5 more minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! If you choose fresh, aim for 4 cups, chopped. Fresh tomatoes can provide a bright flavor. Just be sure to peel them for a smoother soup. You can blanch them in boiling water for a minute to help with peeling. Fresh tomatoes also need a bit more cooking time to break down. This extra step adds a fresh taste to your soup.
What can I serve with creamy tomato basil soup?
This soup pairs well with many sides! A classic choice is grilled cheese sandwiches. Their crunch and cheese complement the soup’s creaminess. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A fresh salad or a simple green salad works great too. You might even add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
In this post, we explored how to make creamy tomato basil soup. We covered the ingredients, steps for cooking, and tips to enhance flavor. You learned about substitutions, variations, and how to store your soup for later. Making this dish is fun and easy. With these guidelines, you can enjoy a delicious meal any time. Use fresh tomatoes for added flavor or try vegan options for a twist. Enjoy your cooking adventure and share this tasty recipe with friends!
