This recipe creates a deeply comforting and warm tomato basil soup, perfect for a chilly evening. It captures the feeling of a simple, homemade meal that soothes the soul.
Author:Elias Rodger
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4-6 servings
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop simmering
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Tomatoes, canned, crushed: 28 ounces
Vegetable or chicken broth: 4 cups
Onion, chopped: 1 medium
Garlic, minced: 3 cloves
Fresh basil leaves, chopped: 1/2 cup, plus extra for garnish
Heavy cream or half-and-half: 1/2 cup
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt: To taste
Black pepper: To taste
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and the optional sugar. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer in batches to a regular blender.
Return the soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat gently until warmed through; do not boil.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
For a richer flavor, roast fresh tomatoes before using them in the recipe.
If you prefer a slightly tangier soup, omit the teaspoon of sugar.
This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese or crusty bread for dipping.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.