How to Make a Delicious Classic Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed by many for generations. The combination of tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor that can be enjoyed in various ways. This versatile soup is not only delicious but also easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your own batch of tomato basil soup along with tips on storage and serving.

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 fresh basil sprigs, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Making Tomato Basil Soup:

Begin by peeling the tomatoes. You can do this quickly by bringing a pot of water to a boil, then plunging the tomatoes in the boiling water for about 30 seconds until their skins loosen up.

Once they have cooled enough to handle, peel off and discard the skin. Afterward, slice the peeled tomatoes into smaller pieces and set them aside. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and allow it to warm up. Once it is sufficiently hot but not smoking, add minced garlic cloves and sauté until they begin to turn golden brown.

Next, stir in the tomato pieces along with vegetable or chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat down to a simmer. Let it cook for about 30 minutes while occasionally stirring to prevent any sticking on the bottom of your pot. During this time, the flavors will meld together perfectly.

Once done cooking, use an immersion blender to blend all ingredients until smooth. If you do not have an immersion blender, transfer half of the soup back into a food processor and puree it before returning everything to its original pot. Finally, add fresh basil, salt, pepper, and heavy cream if desired; mix well.

Cooking time for this recipe is approximately 40 minutes, and it serves four people generously.

Storage Tips:

• Let the soup cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Store it inside your refrigerator where it will last up to five days.
• If you wish to keep this dish longer than that, consider freezing portions of it instead. Make sure to label each freezer bag or container clearly so as not to lose track over time.

Serving Suggestions:

• Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for added flavor.
• Accompany with warm crusty bread if desired.
• For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish fillets.

Tomato basil soup is an excellent choice for those looking to prepare something quick yet satisfying on busy nights. Its simplicity makes it perfect even for novice cooks who might otherwise feel daunted by more complex recipes. Whether you're serving this as part of a larger meal or enjoying it alone, everyone can agree that there’s nothing quite like the taste and aroma of homemade tomato basil soup.

This comforting dish has been cherished across cultures throughout history due to its ability to bring warmth during cooler seasons while being refreshing on warm days. Whether you're looking for something simple yet impressive enough to impress family members or friends, tomato basil soup provides that balance between ease-of-preparation and taste satisfaction.