As the days grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of tomato soup to bring comfort and nostalgia. This creamy tomato soup is simple to make and bursting with flavour, perfect for dipping with grilled cheese or enjoying solo.
Ingredients:
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 onion, chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
-
2 cups vegetable broth
-
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
1 teaspoon dried basil (or a few fresh basil leaves)
-
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, add the sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
-
Season and Simmer: Add salt, pepper, and dried basil. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
-
Blend to Perfection: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
-
Stir in Cream: Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
This creamy tomato soup is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable. Feel free to add herbs, spices, or even roasted veggies for a personalized twist. Enjoy this heartwarming dish on chilly evenings, and let each spoonful take you back to simpler times.