Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup
Nothing beats the classic flavors of a rich and creamy tomato soup. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this comforting bowl of deliciousness that pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty bread roll. It’s perfect for those chilly days or when you’re craving something savory and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes along with their juices and break them up with a spoon. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld together.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree it, making sure to vent the blender and start on low speed.
- Return the pureed soup to the pot (if using a blender) and place over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and add sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes to warm through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if you like.
Serving Suggestions:
For the ultimate comfort meal, serve your creamy tomato soup with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches or a slice of fresh, crusty bread. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dollop of pesto can also add an interesting twist to the soup.
Cook’s Notes:
If you prefer a little texture in your soup, you don’t have to blend it until it’s completely smooth—you can leave some chunks of tomatoes. For those watching their calorie intake, you can substitute heavy cream with a lighter version or even milk, though the soup won’t be as rich.
Enjoy your homemade creamy tomato soup and stay warm!