There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of tomato soup, especially when it’s homemade. Whether you’re looking for something warm on a chilly day or a light, flavorful option for lunch, tomato soup is the ultimate classic. This easy recipe will guide you to create a rich and creamy soup that tastes far better than anything you’d get from a can.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Perfect base for adding your favorite herbs or a swirl of cream.
Let’s dive into making the best tomato soup at home!
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances the acidity)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (28 oz) can of whole tomatoes (or 6 fresh, ripe tomatoes, chopped)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil (or a handful of fresh basil)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for a creamier texture)
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Croutons
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- A drizzle of olive oil or cream
Instructions
. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh basil, croutons, grated Parmesan, or a swirl of cream if desired. Enjoy with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate pairing!
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Add the tomato paste and stir for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Then, pour in the canned tomatoes (with juice) or fresh tomatoes. Use a wooden spoon to break the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Add the broth, sugar, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), basil, and bay leaf. Stir well.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Blend the Soup
Remove the bay leaf. If you prefer a smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Blend until silky smooth.
Add Cream (Optional)
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the cream or coconut milk if you want a creamier texture. Heat for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and Adjust
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar depending on your preference.
Tips and Variations
Roasted Tomatoes*: For a deeper flavor, you can roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. Place halved fresh tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Herbs: Swap basil for thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and freeze some for later.
Final Thoughts
This homemade tomato soup recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to your tastes. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the rich f