Classic Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 4 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup of fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 cup of heavy cream

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrot to the pot and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and sugar to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add the vegetable broth and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes.
  5. After the soup has simmered, remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can also carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender to blend, then return it to the pot.
  6. Once the soup is smooth, add the chopped basil and heavy cream, and stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve hot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the soup for a tangy flavor.
  • Roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup for a deeper, smoky flavor.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
  • Add cooked pasta or rice to make it a heartier meal.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
  • Serve the soup with a side of grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination.
  • Add a handful of spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
  • Use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
  • Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the comforting flavor of homemade Tomato Soup, fresh from your kitchen. This simple yet delightful recipe brings together fresh tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream to create a soul-warming soup. The ingredients are sautéed and simmered to perfection, then blended until smooth for a luscious texture. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a healthy lunch option, this tomato soup is a delicious go-to. With its rich, vibrant flavor and easy preparation, it's sure to become a favored recipe. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for a classic pairing.

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes? Yes, you can substitute 4 cups of canned diced tomatoes for the fresh tomatoes. Make sure to drain the canned tomatoes before adding them to the soup.
  2. Can I use other types of broth instead of vegetable broth? Absolutely! You can use chicken or beef broth if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor of the soup slightly.
  3. Can I omit the heavy cream to make the soup dairy-free? Yes, you can omit the heavy cream if you prefer a dairy-free version. The soup will still be delicious and flavorful without it.
  4. Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the soup? Definitely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to enhance the flavors.
  5. Can I make the soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop before serving.
  6. Can I freeze the soup? Absolutely! Tomato soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the soup.
  • Immersion Blender - An immersion blender is helpful for blending the soup directly in the pot. If not available, a standard blender can be used.
  • Soup Ladle - A soup ladle is useful for serving the soup into bowls.
  • Soup Bowls - Deep bowls are ideal for serving the tomato soup.
  • Garnish Spoon - A spoon can be used to add garnishes, such as a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, to the soup.
  • Crusty Bread - Serving the tomato soup with crusty bread on the side complements the meal.

Origin stories

Historically, tomato soup holds an esteemed place in American culinary tradition, with origins traced back to the 19th century. In 1897, Joseph Campbell, the man behind Campbell Soup Company, introduced condensed tomato soup which quickly became a staple in American households due to its affordability, convenience and surprisingly versatile nature. Interestingly, Campbell's Tomato Soup was so popular that it even caught the attention of the renowned American pop artist, Andy Warhol, becoming the inspiration for his iconic "Campbell's Soup Cans" artwork in the 1960s. Thus, while tomato soup stood the test of time as a comforting and nourishing meal, it also made its mark in the world of art and pop culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.