Homemade Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Looking for a comforting and delicious soup that can be enjoyed year-round? Homemade tomato basil soup is the perfect choice! This recipe offers a balanced blend of sweet tomatoes, savory basil, and a hint of creaminess to create a delightful and satisfying bowl. The keyword density here ensures that the article remains SEO-optimized without being unnatural.

Tomato basil soup has become increasingly popular among food enthusiasts for its simplicity and versatility in both cold and hot weather. Its rich flavor profile pairs well with various side dishes, making it an ideal meal to bring to potlucks or serve as a hearty main course on a chilly evening. For those looking to make this dish at home, the preparation is straightforward, with a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes. One serving yields about 2 cups.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

The ingredients list is concise and straightforward, allowing for easy preparation. The combination of fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic, basil, and broth provides a foundation for a flavorful soup that can be customized further with the addition of cream or half-and-half.

Instructions

1. Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute to enhance the aroma without burning it.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir well to combine all ingredients. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. During this time, you can gently crush some of the tomatoes with a wooden spoon if desired.
4. Once the tomato mixture has softened, add the dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly before adding the chicken broth.
5. After bringing the soup to a gentle simmer, let it cook for another 10 minutes to ensure all flavors have fully developed.
6. For a smoother texture, transfer half of the soup into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Return this puree back into the pot with the remaining chunky tomato mixture.
7. To add richness and creaminess, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking to avoid curdling. Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
8. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes after incorporating the cream to ensure all flavors are well integrated.
9. Serve hot and garnished with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade tomato basil soup!

Why Choose Homemade Tomato Basil Soup?

Making this dish at home offers several benefits beyond just taste. First, it allows you to control the quality of ingredients used, ensuring they are fresh and organic when possible. Secondly, cooking from scratch means you can adjust flavors according to personal preferences without worrying about added preservatives found in store-bought alternatives. Finally, preparing homemade meals like tomato basil soup fosters a sense of culinary accomplishment while spending time with loved ones.

Variations

To expand your enjoyment of this recipe, consider experimenting with different variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken broth and replace it with vegetable broth instead. This variation maintains all other aspects of the original recipe but caters to those following a vegetarian diet.
• Add-ins: Enhance your soup by adding ingredients such as diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or even a touch of spinach towards the end of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
• Garnish options: For a pop of freshness, garnish each serving with fresh herbs like basil leaves or dill. Sliced green onions or crumbled feta cheese also make excellent topping choices depending on taste preferences.

In conclusion, homemade tomato basil soup is not only delicious but versatile as well. Its simplicity allows for endless possibilities in terms of flavor and presentation, making it a favorite among many families and individuals alike. Whether served chilled or hot, this comforting dish will warm both body and soul during colder months.