Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly evening? Look no further! This Ball Recipe Tomato Soup is the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness. It's a classic recipe, elevated with a few simple tricks to create a truly unforgettable homemade tomato soup experience. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a fantastic addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire. Get ready to enjoy a healthy meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: Crusty bread for dipping
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
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Simmer the soup: Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Blend (optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (work in batches if necessary) and blend until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easier cleanup.
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Stir in cream (optional): If using, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a luscious creaminess that elevates the soup to another level.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping – the perfect pairing for this delicious homemade soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Tomato Soup:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the soup will taste. Look for ripe, flavorful tomatoes whenever possible.
- Don't be afraid to adjust seasonings: Taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You might find you need more or less salt, sugar, or herbs depending on your preference.
- Roast the tomatoes (for an even richer flavor): For an extra layer of depth, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes.
- Add a touch of acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of red wine vinegar at the end can brighten up the flavors and balance the sweetness.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Tomato Soup with Roasted Vegetables: Roast vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini alongside the tomatoes for a heartier soup.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Tomato Soup: Ensure your broth is vegetable-based and omit the heavy cream if making a vegan version; coconut milk is a great substitute.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Ball Recipe Tomato Soup is a fantastic example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor and comfort, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy!