Are you looking for a unique and heartwarming gift this holiday season? Forget the generic store-bought presents! This year, surprise your loved ones with a personalized gift that's both delicious and thoughtful: a homemade soup recipe in a mason jar. Not only is it a fun and creative way to share your culinary skills, but it's also a practical and comforting treat perfect for cozy nights. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, making it a delightful homemade cooking project for everyone. Let's dive into this simple yet impactful gift idea!
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup in a Jar (makes 4 servings):
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For the Soup Base:
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
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For the Jar Topping (Layer in this order):
- ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option) per jar
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan) per jar
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped per jar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté 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 delicious soup.
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Simmer the Soup: Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a truly heartwarming and satisfying soup.
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Assemble the Jars: While the soup simmers, sterilize your mason jars (you can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes). Once the soup is cooked, let it cool slightly.
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Layer the Ingredients: Carefully layer the soup ingredients into the jars, starting with the soup base, followed by the heavy cream (or coconut cream), Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), and finally, the fresh basil. Leave about an inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
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Seal and Gift: Tightly seal the mason jars with lids. Add a personalized tag with reheating instructions (see below) and a festive ribbon for a beautiful presentation. These make wonderful quick dinner ideas, perfect for a busy weeknight!
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, simply remove the lid, transfer the soup to a saucepan, and heat over medium heat until warmed through. Stir well to combine all the layers.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that dried basil can't match.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary.
- Make it ahead: You can make the soup a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator before layering it into the jars. This is a fantastic way to prepare ahead for busy schedules!
Variations:
- Roasted Red Pepper Soup: Add roasted red peppers to the soup for a smoky sweetness.
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Creamy Tomato and Spinach Soup: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a healthy boost of nutrients to your hearty soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on cream and cheese choice)
- Protein: 7-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This homemade soup recipe in a mason jar makes a memorable and delicious gift. It’s a perfect way to share the warmth of homemade cooking with your loved ones, making it a truly special and heartwarming present. Enjoy the process of creating these thoughtful gifts and the joy of sharing them!