Classic Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is a classic comfort food, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or enjoying as a light and healthy meal. This homemade Classic Tomato Soup recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you can create a flavorful and satisfying tomato soup that’s far better than anything you can buy in a can.

What Is Tomato Soup?

Tomato soup is a classic and versatile soup made primarily from tomatoes, often blended into a smooth, rich, and comforting texture. It is a beloved dish renowned for its simplicity and deep, savoury flavour, making it a staple in many kitchens worldwide. Typically, tomato soup consists of ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a combination of herbs and spices, with variations that may include ingredients like cream, broth, or other vegetables to enhance its taste and consistency. Whether enjoyed as a soothing, standalone bowl or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, tomato soup is a timeless favourite!

Ingredients Needed To Make Classic Tomato Soup

Making a delicious pot of homemade tomato soup is easier than you may think, and the key to its rich flavour lies in the ingredients and cooking method. To make the perfect tomato soup, you’ll need the following essential ingredients:

Ripe Tomatoes: for that robust tomato flavour. You can’t make tomato soup without the star ingredient ‘TOMATOES’. They provide the primary flavour and colour of the soup. They offer a sweet and tangy taste that is characteristic of tomato soup. I used vine tomatoes but any meaty tomato works well – San Marzano, Roma, and even a variety of heirlooms would be great in this soup.

Onions: Onions add a savoury, slightly sweet flavour and help build depth and complexity in the soup. They also contribute to its overall aroma.

Garlic: Garlic infuses the soup with a rich, aromatic flavour and complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a touch of richness and smoothness to the soup. It helps in roasting the onions and garlic, enhancing their flavours and contributing to the soup’s silkiness.

Salt and Pepper: You can’t have one without the other (unless you’re baking a cake of course) these seasonings are essential for enhancing the overall taste of the soup. Salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, while pepper adds a bit of heat and depth.

Sugar: A small amount of sugar is used to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. It helps in rounding out the flavours and reducing any potential bitterness in the soup.

Basil: Fresh basil is a fragrant herb that brings a delightful aromatic note to the soup. It contributes to the soup’s overall aroma and provides a burst of fresh, herbal flavour.

Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth serves as the liquid base of the soup, it adds depth and helps achieve the desired soup consistency, whether it’s a hearty or a lighter texture.

In combination, these ingredients work harmoniously to create a well-balanced and satisfying bowl of tomato soup with a robust, complex flavour profile.

How To Make Tomato Soup

Roasting the Tomatoes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Slice the tomatoes and onion in quarters and place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. Place on a baking dish.
• Trim off the stem side of the garlic bulb and place onto a large piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil and salt. Wrap the garlic head tightly with the foil and place it on the baking dish alongside the tomatoes and onion.
• Roast the tomatoes, onion and garlic in the oven for about 35- 40 minutes or until the tomatoes are caramelized and slightly charred.

Blending and Simmering

• Let the roasted tomatoes, onion and garlic cool slightly.
• Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onion, and garlic to a blender or food processor.
• Blend until you achieve a smooth, velvety consistency.
• Add fresh basil and blend again until you have a smooth and consistent liquid.
• Pour the tomato mixture into a large pot.
• Add the vegetable broth, sugar and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavours to develop.

Creamy Option (Optional)

• If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream after simmering.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a vegan option.
• Gently heat the soup for an additional 5 minutes.

Taste and Adjust

• Taste your roasted tomato soup and adjust the seasoning – add more salt and pepper or if it’s too acidic, you can add a bit more sugar.

What Pairs Well

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the combination of creamy tomato soup and a crispy grilled cheese sandwich is unbeatable.

Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread. Check out my No Knead Artisan Bread for an easy no fuss recipe.

Parmesan Cheese: Top the soup with Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavour and texture.

Substitutions

• If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned whole tomatoes.
• For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer.
• Customize the herbs by adding a dash of thyme, oregano or rosemary for added depth.

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How To Store Classic Tomato Soup

Allow the tomato soup to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer the soup to an airtight container specifically designed for storing liquids to prevent leaks. Place the sealed container in the refrigerator and store for 3-4 days.

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Let’s Make Some Classic Tomato Soup