Homemade Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Tomato basil soup is a delightful and comforting dish that many people enjoy during the cooler months of the year. This rich and savory soup can be enjoyed in its traditional form or with various additions to suit your taste buds. In this article, we will explore how to make a simple yet delicious homemade tomato basil soup, perfect for those chilly evenings.

Tomato basil soup is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal. It can be paired with various side dishes such as garlic bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or even fresh salads for an extra burst of flavor and freshness. The richness of the tomato sauce combined with the aromatic basil pairs beautifully, creating a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Start by preparing the tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel them before chopping. Once prepared, cut each tomato into quarters and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the onions are softened, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir continuously for about 1 minute or until you can smell the aroma of the garlic. Garlic is best used fresh as it gives a more natural flavor compared to roasted or dried forms.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and stir them into the mixture. Let these ingredients cook together for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together nicely.
5. Next, add the chicken broth to your pot along with the unsalted butter. Stir everything together well before bringing it all to a simmer on low heat. This step is crucial as you want the soup to have a rich and smooth texture.
6. If desired for a creamier consistency, stir in half or three-quarters of the heavy cream into the pot. Cook this mixture until the soup reaches your preferred thickness but do not let it boil; boiling might cause the soup to become too watery.
7. Remove the pot from heat once everything is thoroughly mixed and blended together. Taste test for saltiness and adjust accordingly by adding more seasoning if necessary.
8. Finally, gently fold in the finely chopped fresh basil leaves into your hot tomato basil soup mixture. Fresh herbs have a much stronger flavor than dried ones, so it's recommended to use them freshly chopped rather than pre-ground or rehydrated forms whenever possible.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

To serve this homemade tomato basil soup, pour it into individual bowls and garnish each with a sprinkle of paprika for that added touch. You could also try serving slices of garlic bread alongside if you have some on hand – this will complement the flavors perfectly!

• Vegetarian option: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, so you can enjoy it without any meat products.
• Add-ins for extra flavor: Consider adding diced zucchini or carrots to give your soup an extra layer of flavor. You could also use a mix of different types of tomatoes such as cherry tomatoes and heirloom tomatoes to create unique combinations.

Conclusion

Cooking up some homemade tomato basil soup is sure to be both satisfying and rewarding. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and comforting meal that will warm your heart on a cold day. With just 30 minutes of active time needed for preparation, this recipe offers an easy way to bring something special to the table without requiring much effort.