Are you craving a bowl of warm, comforting goodness? Then look no further! This recipe brings you a classic tomato soup, inspired by the culinary queen herself, Martha Stewart. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh tomato flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated lunch. This homemade tomato soup is a delicious and healthy meal, sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the best tomato soup recipe you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- A swirl of heavy cream or crème fraîche, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté 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. This step builds the flavor base of our delicious soup.
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Simmer the Soup: Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce 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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Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (in batches if necessary) and blend until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easy cleanup. Remember to vent the blender lid to prevent pressure buildup.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a swirl of heavy cream or crème fraîche, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping – the perfect combination!
Cooking Tips for the Best Tomato Soup:
- Roast the tomatoes: For an even richer flavor, 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 30-40 minutes.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You might want to add more salt, pepper, sugar, or herbs depending on your preference. Don't be afraid to experiment!
- Add a touch of acidity: A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice can brighten the flavor of the soup and add a nice complexity.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier texture without adding heavy cream, blend in a few cooked potatoes with the soup.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Tomato Basil Soup: Increase the amount of fresh basil to make a vibrant tomato basil soup.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a luxuriously creamy soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on additions)
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy tomato soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal option. It's adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Enjoy!