Craving a taste of the sun-drenched French countryside? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the vibrant, comforting flavors of La Madeleine's beloved Tomato Basil Soup, bringing a touch of Parisian charm straight to your kitchen. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly easy to make at home. Get ready to enjoy a healthy meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. This easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavor
This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to achieve a depth of flavor that will transport you. Let's gather everything we need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (about ½ cup)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Culinary Magic
Let's embark on this culinary adventure together! Follow these simple steps to recreate the magic of La Madeleine's famous soup:
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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 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Flavor Base: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar to the pot. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping, if desired.
Tips and Tricks for Soup Success
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Fresh is Best: While canned tomatoes work well, using fresh, ripe tomatoes will elevate the flavor significantly. If using fresh tomatoes, roast them in the oven before adding them to the pot for an intense, smoky flavor.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup frequently throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more basil, oregano, or a pinch of salt and pepper depending on your preferences.
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Spice it Up: For a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
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Creamy Variation: For a creamier soup, stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations and serving size)
- Fat: 5-8g
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
This homemade Tomato Basil Soup is a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a quick dinner idea that's also perfect for meal prepping, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the comforting warmth of this easy-to-make soup recipe, a testament to the magic of homemade cooking.