Tomato Basil Soup – Classic Comfort Food
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Tomato Basil Soup. With the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil, this soup is a timeless classic that’s both simple and delicious. Ideal for those who enjoy homemade meals, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a rich, velvety soup that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a light meal, this Tomato Basil Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Cook the Tomatoes. Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pot. Stir well, allowing the tomatoes to cook down and release their juices. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Blend the Soup. Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Add Broth and Basil. Return the pot to the stove. Add the vegetable broth and chopped basil leaves. Stir to combine, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for another 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Season and Finish. Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. For a richer texture, stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 5 more minutes, then remove from heat.
Serve. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot.
Recipe tips
Using ripe, in-season tomatoes will give your soup the best flavor. If using canned tomatoes, choose high-quality, whole tomatoes. Fresh basil is key to this recipe. Add it towards the end of cooking to retain its bright flavor. For a creamier soup, blend in the heavy cream at the end. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk for a different twist.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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