Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re seeking solace on a chilly day or a light and refreshing starter for your dinner, this Easy Homemade Fresh Tomato Soup recipe is a perfect choice. Made with ripe, juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a hint of creaminess, this soup is both nourishing and delicious. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful bowl of tomato goodness that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Easy Homemade Fresh Tomato Soup
To make this flavorful and comforting soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes (such as Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil (or 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano, chopped)
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Croutons or grilled cheese (optional, for serving)
How to Make Easy Homemade Fresh Tomato Soup
Follow these steps to prepare your delicious homemade tomato soup:
1. Preparing the Tomatoes:
- Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under cold water.
- Remove the stems and cut a small “X” at the bottom of each tomato. This will make it easier to peel them later.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice water.
- Carefully place the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30-60 seconds, or until the skins start to peel back.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatoes to the ice bath to cool.
- Once cooled, peel the skins off the tomatoes and roughly chop them. Set aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Cooking the Soup Base:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Blending the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Return the blended soup to the pot if using a regular blender.
5. Seasoning and Finishing the Soup:
- Add the dried basil and oregano (or fresh herbs if using) to the soup and stir to combine.
- Taste the soup and add sugar, salt, and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- If you prefer a creamy tomato soup, stir in the heavy cream and heat through without bringing it to a boil.
6. Serving the Tomato Soup:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately with croutons or a side of grilled cheese for a classic pairing.
About the Main Ingredients
Tomatoes:
Tomatoes are the star of this soup, providing a rich, robust flavor and vibrant color. They are a great source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is linked to numerous health benefits. Using fresh, ripe tomatoes is key to achieving the best flavor in this soup. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal due to their lower water content and richer taste.
Onion:
Onions add depth and sweetness to the soup. When sautéed, they become soft and slightly caramelized, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Onions are also a good source of vitamins B6 and C, folate, and potassium. They contain antioxidants and compounds that have been linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health.
Garlic:
Garlic contributes a savory, aromatic element to the soup. It has been used for centuries for both its culinary and medicinal properties. Garlic contains compounds such as allicin, which have been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects. It also adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes and herbs.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is known for its health benefits. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, and contains antioxidants that protect against oxidative damage. In this recipe, olive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic, providing a flavorful base for the soup.
Tomato Paste:
Tomato paste adds a concentrated tomato flavor and helps to thicken the soup. It is made by cooking down tomatoes and removing the skin and seeds, resulting in a rich, thick paste. Tomato paste is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including lycopene, which has antioxidant properties.
Vegetable Broth:
Vegetable broth provides a flavorful and savory base for the soup. It is typically made by simmering vegetables, herbs, and spices in water, extracting their flavors and nutrients. Using vegetable broth keeps the soup vegetarian and enhances the overall taste. You can also use chicken broth if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Herbs:
Basil and oregano are classic herbs used in tomato-based dishes. They add a fragrant, slightly sweet, and peppery flavor to the soup. Both herbs are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Fresh herbs are ideal, but dried herbs work well too and are more convenient for year-round cooking.
Heavy Cream:
Heavy cream is optional in this recipe, but it adds a luxurious creaminess to the soup. It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a smooth, velvety texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute with coconut milk or leave it out entirely for a lighter soup.
By following this recipe, you can create a delicious and comforting bowl of homemade tomato soup that is perfect for any occasion. The fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe that you can easily whip up for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. Enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of this classic dish and the comfort it brings with every spoonful. Happy cooking!
