Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe

Tomato soup is one of the most comforting, classic dishes that can bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to any meal. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter day or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, this homemade tomato soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Made with fresh, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a rich, velvety texture, it’s both flavorful and nourishing. The key to this soup’s depth of flavor lies in the combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying bowl of soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. What’s even better is that it’s easy to prepare, and you can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it smooth and creamy or a little chunky, this homemade tomato soup will make you rethink ever buying canned soup again.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe

This homemade tomato soup stands out for its balance of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Unlike store-bought versions, it’s made from scratch with simple ingredients, allowing you to control the seasoning and consistency. The fresh basil adds an aromatic touch, while the butter and olive oil create a luxurious base. Whether you’re looking to serve it as a starter or a full meal, this recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge or freezer.

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Ingredients

• Fresh tomatoes
• Vegetable stock
• Fresh basil
• Onion
• Minced garlic
• Butter
• Olive oil
• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

Variations

• Add cream: For a richer, creamier texture, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream after blending.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
• Roasted tomatoes: Roast the tomatoes in the oven before making the soup for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• Herb variations: Swap the basil for other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut milk instead of butter and cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make the Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the tomatoes

Begin by washing the fresh tomatoes and cutting them into pieces. You can leave the skins on for a rustic feel or peel them if you prefer a smoother texture.

Step 2: Sauté the onion and garlic

In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Make the roux

Add the all-purpose flour to the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken the soup.

Step 4: Add tomatoes and vegetable stock

Pour the chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock into the pot. Stir well to combine, and season with sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Blend the soup

Once the tomatoes have softened, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.

Step 6: Add basil and simmer

Stir in the fresh basil and cook for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the soup with its aromatic flavor. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of cream for added richness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be sure to cook the roux for at least 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
• If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can pulse the soup a few times with the blender, leaving some pieces intact.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste—if you like a sweeter soup, you can add a little more sugar. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a bit more salt or a splash of vinegar.

How to Serve

Homemade tomato soup is perfect when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, a slice of sourdough bread, or a simple salad. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. If you want to make it heartier, serve it alongside a bowl of roasted vegetables or a warm baguette.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This tomato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

To freeze, let the soup cool and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigerating, you can add a splash of vegetable stock or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes for this soup?

Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Choose whole or crushed tomatoes for the best texture.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

3. How can I make this soup vegan?

To make the soup vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil, and omit any dairy toppings.

4. Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?

Yes, chicken stock can be used instead of vegetable stock for a different flavor profile.

5. What can I use if I don’t have an immersion blender?

If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be careful with the hot liquid.

6. How can I adjust the sweetness of the soup?

If you find the soup too tangy, you can add more sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

8. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños to give the soup a spicy kick.

9. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, the soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free flour substitute.

10. Can I use fresh basil instead of dried basil?

Yes, fresh basil is preferred in this recipe, but if you only have dried basil, you can substitute it—just use a smaller amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Conclusion

This homemade tomato soup recipe is a timeless classic that’s easy to prepare and full of fresh, vibrant flavors. Perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to your tastes and dietary needs. With the option to make it ahead of time and store leftovers, it’s both convenient and satisfying. Whether you prefer it smooth and creamy or chunky, this tomato soup will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and feel free to get creative with variations that suit your preferences.

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