Hearty Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Tomato basil soup is a comforting winter favorite that can be enjoyed all year round. This soup is rich in flavor and provides warmth on chilly days. In this article, we will guide you through making a delicious tomato basil soup with a cozy and inviting taste.

The preparation time for the soup is around 20 minutes, while it takes approximately an hour to simmer and thicken. Yielding about 4 servings, this recipe is perfect for small gatherings or as a hearty lunch option. Let’s dive into how you can make your very own tomato basil soup at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of chopped onions
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium tomatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of dried basil
• 2 cups of chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cream (optional for a richer flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Start by sautéing the onions in olive oil until they become translucent. This will take around 5 minutes over medium heat.

Step 2: Once the onions are soft, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together. The garlic should be fragrant without browning.

Step 3: Next, stir in the diced tomatoes until they release their juices into the pan. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomato to soften and break down further.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture into a large pot or Dutch oven if you are using a stove top. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and bring it to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat immediately once it comes to a boil, then lower it down to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer gently for about 30 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and the flavors have melded beautifully together. If you prefer your soup to be extra rich and creamy, stir in some heavy cream at this stage but do so after taking it off the heat.

Step 6: Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. The dried basil is added towards the end of cooking because its aroma can easily overpower other flavors if used too early. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.
• Pair this soup with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches to make it an even more satisfying meal.
• If you like your meals to be heartier, serve this alongside some quinoa salad or a side of garlic breadsticks.

Tips for Success

1. Always peel the tomatoes before adding them into the soup. This step helps in eliminating the gritty texture often associated with raw tomato skins.
2. If you're making this soup ahead of time and storing it, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for refrigeration or freezing purposes.
3. For a slightly different twist, you can also add some spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This not only adds color but also brings in a bit more nutritional value with its leafy greens content.

Tomato basil soup is an excellent way to enjoy fresh produce throughout the year while creating something warm and inviting for your family or friends. Whether you're looking to start a new recipe collection or simply add another comforting dish to your repertoire, this tomato basil soup will definitely fit the bill! Try it out today and bring some warmth into your kitchen.