Here’s a recipe for a classic creamy tomato soup with a fragrant basil twist.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and simmer: Toss in the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Blend in the basil: Add the fresh basil leaves to the pot and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Purée the soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, being careful with the hot liquid.
- Add cream and season: Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too acidic, add a tablespoon of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of cream if desired.
Tips for Creamy Perfection
- For an extra smooth texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes after adding the cream.
- Don’t skip the fresh basil – it adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience. For a lighter option, try it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Ready to cozy up with a bowl of homemade tomato soup? Give this recipe a try and let the comforting flavors warm your soul. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us – we’d love to see how your soup turns out!
Happy cooking!