How to Make Delicious Tomato Soup with Fresh Tomatoes
Tomato soup is a comforting and versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. The best part? It’s even better when made with fresh, ripe tomatoes. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or pairing it with a sandwich, this homemade version will impress. Let’s walk through how to make a delicious tomato soup from scratch!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the key ingredients for a simple yet flavorful tomato soup:
- 2 lbs fresh tomatoes (Roma or any variety)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
Pro Tip: Use tomatoes that are at their peak ripeness for the best flavor. Overripe or slightly soft tomatoes work well since they release more juices and have a rich taste.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tomato Soup
1. Blanch and Peel the Tomatoes
Blanching makes it easier to peel the tomatoes, ensuring a smoother soup texture.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Score an ‘X’ on the bottom of each tomato using a knife.
- Gently drop the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30 seconds.
- Immediately transfer them to an ice bath.
- Once cooled, peel off the skin starting from where you made the ‘X’.
Pro Tip: Skip this step if you prefer to leave the skins on, but peeling them results in a silkier texture.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Cook
Chop the peeled tomatoes into chunks and add them to the pot.
- Stir in the tomato paste (if using) and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity.
- Let the tomatoes cook down for about 10-15 minutes on medium heat until they release their juices and soften.
4. Blend the Soup
Once the tomatoes have softened, remove the pot from heat.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
- Return the soup to the pot and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and mix it back in with the unblended portion.
5. Add Broth and Simmer
Stir in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Finish with Cream (Optional)
For a creamy tomato soup, stir in heavy cream or milk at the end. This gives the soup a rich, velvety finish.
- If you prefer a lighter option, you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Pro Tip: Add the cream slowly and stir constantly to prevent it from curdling.
Serving Your Homemade Tomato Soup
Once your soup is ready, it’s time to serve it!
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for added freshness.
- Pair it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination.
Pro Tip: Serve your tomato soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of croutons for an added touch of texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in the fridge: Leftover tomato soup can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze for later: You can also freeze this soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Pro Tip: If you’re freezing the soup, leave out the cream and add it when reheating to ensure it doesn’t split.
Conclusion
Making delicious tomato soup with fresh tomatoes is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade soup that’s packed with flavor. Follow the tips in this recipe, and you’ll have a perfectly smooth, flavorful tomato soup every time!
