How to Make a Delicious Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Looking for a warm and comforting soup that is easy to make? Try our creamy tomato basil soup! With its rich flavor and simplicity, this soup is perfect for those cold winter nights or just when you want something satisfying. The keyword for this article is "creamy tomato basil soup."

Creamy tomato basil soup is a beloved dish in many households. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized according to your taste preferences. In fact, you can adjust the heat of the soup by adding more or less garlic depending on how much spiciness you enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (or water for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Creamy blend of half and half cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Tools needed:

• Large pot
• Mixing spoon
• Blender or immersion blender

Preparation Steps:

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic to the onions and continue cooking for another minute or two until fragrant but not burnt.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth (or water). Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors of the soup to meld together nicely.
4. After the soup has been simmering for 15 minutes or so, you can either use an immersion blender right in your pot or transfer everything into a regular blender to puree until smooth and creamy (if using half and half cream).
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If desired, add extra creaminess by incorporating the creamy blend of half and half cream at this stage.
6. The soup is now ready to serve! Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh basil leaves for a touch of green color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious homemade creamy tomato basil soup!

Time: Approximately 20 minutes (excluding cooling time). Servings: 4 generous portions.

Tips for Perfect Soup:

• If you want the soup to be even creamier, consider adding a bit of heavy whipping cream towards the end instead of using half and half. However, note that this may increase the calorie count significantly so it’s best suited as an option if you are not watching your calories closely.
• For those who prefer their soups a bit thicker than usual, simply reduce the amount of broth or water used in the recipe slightly.

This creamy tomato basil soup is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction whenever you enjoy it. Whether served on a chilly evening as part of your dinner menu or enjoyed solo during lunch breaks, this dish will be appreciated by all who taste it. Its simplicity makes it versatile enough for any occasion while delivering rich flavor every single time.

Variations:

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the soup an extra kick if you like spicy foods, or perhaps some thyme alongside your usual basil could add another layer of depth. For vegetarians, this recipe already suits their dietary needs without any modifications being necessary.