Welcome, tomato lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the best tomato soup ever, a heartwarming and delicious classic that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a fan of tomato-based dishes or simply looking for the perfect comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and smooth texture.
Introduction
Tomato soup is a dish beloved across cultures and cuisines. Often served as an appetizer or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, this soup has evolved into a comfort food favorite. What makes this version of tomato soup stand out is its simplicity and depth of flavor, which combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with rich cream, herbs, and butter. For anyone who enjoys classic soups and hearty meals, this is the ultimate recipe to try. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients for Best Tomato Soup Ever
To make this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium white or yellow onion (diced)
- 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) butter
- Two 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes
- One 46-ounce bottle or can of tomato juice
- 3 to 6 tablespoons of sugar (to taste)
- 1 or 2 tablespoons chicken base, or 3 chicken bouillon cubes
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup sherry (optional)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
Optional Substitutions:
- For a vegetarian-friendly version, replace chicken base with vegetable stock.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
- If you’re cutting down on sugar, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
How to Make Best Tomato Soup Ever – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Dice your onion into small, even pieces. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and begins to sizzle, add the onions. Cook until they become translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Tomato Juice
Once the onions are soft and fragrant, it’s time to add the tomatoes. Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir to combine. Then, add the tomato juice. Make sure everything is mixed well to create a smooth, flavorful base.
Step 3: Balance the Acidity
Tomatoes can sometimes be too acidic, which is why adding sugar is important. Start with 3 tablespoons and taste. If the soup still has a sharp tang, slowly add more sugar, up to 6 tablespoons. Stir after each addition to ensure it dissolves fully.
Step 4: Season with Chicken Base and Pepper
Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of chicken base to the pot. If using bouillon cubes, dissolve them in hot water before adding them to the soup. Stir in a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Let the soup heat until it’s nearly boiling, but don’t allow it to reach a full boil.
Step 5: Add Sherry and Cream
If you’re using sherry, now’s the time to add it. Pour it in and give the soup a good stir. Then, reduce the heat and slowly add the heavy cream. Stir until the cream is fully incorporated, creating a velvety texture.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Just before serving, stir in the chopped basil and parsley. These fresh herbs add brightness and color to the soup, enhancing its flavor and presentation.
Serve the soup warm and enjoy! You can pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips for Best Tomato Soup Ever
- Adjusting sweetness: Depending on your preference, start with less sugar and taste as you go. Some tomatoes can be naturally sweeter, so you may not need the full 6 tablespoons.
- Extra Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy version, consider blending the soup after adding the cream.
- Choosing the Right Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor, or substitute with fresh, ripe tomatoes when in season.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tomato Soup Ever
- Use a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven distributes heat evenly and ensures that the soup doesn’t burn at the bottom.
- Fresh Herbs: Always add fresh herbs like basil and parsley at the end of cooking. This helps preserve their vibrant flavor and color.
- Blending for Smoothness: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding the cream. This step is optional but highly recommended for a restaurant-quality finish.
Serving Suggestions for Best Tomato Soup Ever
This soup pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled Cheese: The combination of creamy tomato soup and crispy, melty grilled cheese is a match made in heaven.
- Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Salad: A light, refreshing green salad can balance the richness of the soup, making it a more complete meal.
For a cozy dinner, serve it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea. This versatile dish is great for lunch, dinner, or even a starter for a larger meal.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Info for Best Tomato Soup Ever (per serving):
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin C: 45%
Storage and Leftovers for Best Tomato Soup Ever
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! This tomato soup stores beautifully.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly to maintain the creamy texture.
- Reheating Tip: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best Tomato Soup Ever
1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the butter for olive oil, the chicken base for vegetable stock, and the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative.
2. What can I use instead of sherry?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the sherry with apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice to maintain a bit of acidity.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have ripe, fresh tomatoes, use about 6 large tomatoes, peeled and chopped, in place of the canned variety.
4. How do I make the soup thicker?
For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of tomato juice or add a tablespoon of tomato paste. You can also simmer the soup uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
Related Recipes for Best Tomato Soup Ever Lovers
Looking for more comforting meals? Check out these delicious recipes from Optimal Recipes:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread: A hearty and satisfying casserole, perfect for cozy nights.
- Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix: A fun and flavorful appetizer to start your meal off right.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making this best tomato soup ever. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and fresh herbs, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your feedback or personal variations in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you made this tomato soup recipe your own!
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Best Tomato Soup Ever – Creamy, Easy & Delicious Recipe
Description
Welcome, tomato lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the best tomato soup ever, a heartwarming and delicious classic that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a fan of tomato-based dishes or simply looking for the perfect comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and smooth texture.
Ingredients
- 1 medium white or yellow onion (diced)
- 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) butter
- Two 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes
- One 46-ounce bottle or can of tomato juice
- 3 to 6 tablespoons of sugar (to taste)
- 1 or 2 tablespoons chicken base, or 3 chicken bouillon cubes
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup sherry (optional)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
Optional Substitutions:
- For a vegetarian-friendly version, replace chicken base with vegetable stock.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
- If you’re cutting down on sugar, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Dice your onion into small, even pieces. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and begins to sizzle, add the onions. Cook until they become translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Tomato Juice
Once the onions are soft and fragrant, it’s time to add the tomatoes. Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir to combine. Then, add the tomato juice. Make sure everything is mixed well to create a smooth, flavorful base.
Step 3: Balance the Acidity
Tomatoes can sometimes be too acidic, which is why adding sugar is important. Start with 3 tablespoons and taste. If the soup still has a sharp tang, slowly add more sugar, up to 6 tablespoons. Stir after each addition to ensure it dissolves fully.
Step 4: Season with Chicken Base and Pepper
Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of chicken base to the pot. If using bouillon cubes, dissolve them in hot water before adding them to the soup. Stir in a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Let the soup heat until it’s nearly boiling, but don’t allow it to reach a full boil.
Step 5: Add Sherry and Cream
If you’re using sherry, now’s the time to add it. Pour it in and give the soup a good stir. Then, reduce the heat and slowly add the heavy cream. Stir until the cream is fully incorporated, creating a velvety texture.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Just before serving, stir in the chopped basil and parsley. These fresh herbs add brightness and color to the soup, enhancing its flavor and presentation.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Adjusting sweetness: Depending on your preference, start with less sugar and taste as you go. Some tomatoes can be naturally sweeter, so you may not need the full 6 tablespoons.
- Extra Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy version, consider blending the soup after adding the cream.
- Choosing the Right Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor, or substitute with fresh, ripe tomatoes when in season.
