There’s nothing like a warm bowl of creamy tomato basil soup to wrap you in comfort. This flavorful dish brings together simple ingredients like canned crushed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something cozy. In this guide, I’ll walk you step-by-step through creating this delicious soup. You’ll also discover tips, tricks, and variations to make it uniquely yours. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
To make a rich and tasty creamy tomato basil soup, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s a list to guide you:
– 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted for added depth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth or homemade stock
– 1 cup heavy cream (substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for sweetness balance)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh, if available)
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh basil leaves, torn or whole, for garnish
– Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor. The canned crushed tomatoes provide a rich base. I love using fire-roasted tomatoes for that smoky touch. Fresh garlic and onion add sweetness and depth.
You can choose between vegetable broth or chicken broth. Both add a nice body to the soup. The cream gives it that smooth, creamy texture. If you want a lighter soup, switch to coconut cream.
Seasonings like dried basil and black pepper enhance the taste. Don’t forget the salt; it brings out the flavors. The sugar is optional, but it can balance any acidity from the tomatoes.
Finally, the fresh basil leaves add a refreshing finish. They also make the soup look beautiful! For a kick, add some red pepper flakes.
This full recipe will guide you through creating this comforting dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Cooking Process
Sautéing onion and garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and clear. This step builds a rich base for your soup. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. You want the garlic fragrant but not burnt.
Adding tomatoes and spices
Now, it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Pour both into the pot, then sprinkle in the dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar. Stir everything well to combine. This mixture should come to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. This simmering helps to meld the flavors together beautifully.
Blending the soup
After 15 minutes, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Aim for a silky smooth texture. If you prefer a traditional blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches and blend until smooth. Once blended, return the soup to the pot if you used a traditional blender. Stir in the heavy cream, warming it over low heat for another 5 minutes. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes on top. For the full recipe, check the details above. Enjoy this comforting dish!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
Adjusting seasoning is key. Taste your soup while you cook. Add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper if needed. A little sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes. I recommend adding it slowly, so you don’t overpower the dish.
Choosing the right tomatoes makes a big difference. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes add a deep, smoky flavor. They enhance the soup’s richness. If you use fresh tomatoes, opt for ripe ones. They bring a bright taste to your soup.
Using fresh vs. dried basil also affects the flavor. Fresh basil gives a vibrant, herbal taste. It shines when added at the end of cooking. Dried basil works well too, but it needs time to release its flavor. If you use dried, add it earlier in the cooking process.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps. Enjoy your cooking!
Variations
Dietary Modifications
You can easily change this creamy tomato basil soup to meet your needs. Here are some great options:
– Vegan alternative: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream. This keeps the soup rich and creamy without dairy. You can also use vegetable broth to ensure it’s completely plant-based.
– Gluten-free options: The ingredients in this soup are already gluten-free. Just make sure your broth and any toppings you use are also gluten-free.
– Adding protein (chicken or beans): For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken or beans. If you choose chicken, shred it and stir it in before serving. For beans, try white beans or chickpeas. They add texture and make the soup even more filling.
These variations let you enjoy creamy tomato basil soup no matter your diet. You can find the full recipe for this comforting dish in the earlier sections.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your creamy tomato basil soup fresh, store it properly. Here’s how:
– Refrigerating leftovers: Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label it with the date.
– Freezing the soup: If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when it freezes. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
– Reheating guidelines: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Heat it gently on the stove over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. If it seems too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
By following these steps, you can savor the comforting taste of creamy tomato basil soup anytime. Check out the Full Recipe for more delicious details!
FAQs
Can I make creamy tomato basil soup without cream?
Yes, you can! Use coconut cream or blended cashews as a dairy-free option. These alternatives keep the soup creamy while adding a unique flavor. I love using coconut cream; it gives a nice sweetness and richness.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup lasts about five days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure it cools down before you store it. Reheat slowly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often.
What can I serve with creamy tomato basil soup?
This soup pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of croutons adds a nice crunch too. You can even serve it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fancy touch.
For the complete recipe, check out Creamy Tomato Basil Soup .
This post covered all you need to know about creamy tomato basil soup. We went through ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for great taste. I also shared variations for different diets and storage advice to keep leftovers fresh.
Make this soup at home and impress your family. With simple steps and tasty results, you can’t go wrong. Now that you know the process, enjoy cooking!
