How to Make a Delicious Classic Tomato Basil Soup

Taste and aroma of fresh herbs and vegetables have been captured in this classic tomato basil soup recipe. Whether you're craving for something savory or just want to indulge in a homemade comfort meal, this simple yet flavorful soup will be your go-to dish.

Tomato basil soup is a beloved staple in many households around the world. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a hearty winter warmer or a light summer lunch. If you're looking for an easy recipe to impress both family and friends, this tomato basil soup offers just the right balance of simplicity and rich flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 500g (approx. 1 lb) fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Heavy cream for serving (optional)

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

The base of this soup is a simple tomato bisque. It starts with a delicate sautéed onion and garlic, which are gently cooked until they release their sweet aroma. The addition of fresh tomatoes enriches the flavor profile while providing the perfect backdrop for the basil.

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic cloves and cook them briefly to release their fragrance without burning them.

Meanwhile, place the fresh tomatoes in a bowl of warm water for 2-3 minutes. Once soft, peel off the skins and dice into smaller pieces. Add these tomatoes along with the chopped basil leaves to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Add the vegetable or chicken broth to cover the mixture completely. Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage as well. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together beautifully.

Once done, use an immersion blender right in the pot to puree everything until smooth. For those who prefer a creamier consistency without using heavy cream, you can also transfer half of the soup to a regular blender and blend it briefly before returning it back into the pot.

Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes if necessary to allow the flavors to deepen further. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a dollop of heavy cream (optional) on top, garnished with fresh basil leaves or even some croutons for added texture.

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p>Tips for Perfect Results:

1. Ensure your tomatoes are fresh; using canned tomatoes might not yield the same depth of flavor.
2. If you're making large quantities, consider doubling up on ingredients to ensure everyone gets a satisfying portion.
3. For an extra touch, serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last drop of deliciousness.

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p>Variations:

1. Add a few tablespoons of pesto right before serving for added color and flavor.
2. Incorporate spinach leaves during the last 10 minutes of cooking to enrich the nutritional value and add a vibrant green color.
3. For a creamy version without dairy, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

This tomato basil soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings joy while preparing it. It’s an ideal dish for those lazy Sundays where you want to relax and enjoy some homemade comfort food. With its ease of preparation and flexibility in serving options, this soup is sure to become a regular fixture in your recipe repertoire.

Conclusion: Tomato basil soup remains timeless because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and complexity. From the initial stages of sautéing onions and garlic to the final steps where we blend ingredients until smooth, each step contributes significantly towards creating a rich, satisfying bowl of nourishment. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this versatile soup guarantees satisfaction every single time.