Introduction
Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and richness to any meal. Perfect for chilly days, this hearty soup combines the bright flavors of ripe tomatoes with a creamy base, making it both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of diced tomatoes)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup is not only easy to prepare but also delicious and versatile, perfect for pairing with crusty bread or a simple salad. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture on any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing and chopping the vegetables. Dice one large onion, four cloves of garlic, two carrots, and two celery stalks.
Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened.
Add Tomatoes
Incorporate two cans of crushed tomatoes (28 oz each) into the pot. Stir well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
Season the Mixture
Add one teaspoon of dried basil, one teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Add Broth
Pour in four cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
Blend the Soup
After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Add Cream
Stir in one cup of heavy cream. Allow the soup to heat through over low heat for an additional 5 minutes.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
Serve Warm
Ladle the creamy chunky tomato soup into bowls and serve warm. Top with fresh basil leaves or croutons if desired.
Notes
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time.
Freezing Instructions
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.
Customizations
Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a method where you cook vegetables in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. This technique enhances the flavor of your base ingredients, like onions and garlic, for your tomato soup.
Blending
Blending is crucial for achieving a creamy texture in tomato soup. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth, creating a velvety consistency.
Simmering
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together. After combining your sautéed vegetables and tomatoes, let the soup simmer gently for a while to enrich its taste and texture.
Seasoning
Seasoning is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the soup. Adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs to create a balanced and tasty dish.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a convenient alternative and can produce a delicious soup.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely, simply use plant-based cream or alternative milk instead of dairy to keep it vegan.
Can I store leftover soup?
Yes, creamy tomato soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove for best results.
What can I serve with tomato soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad are great accompaniments to tomato soup.
Conclusion
Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments. Its rich flavors and smooth texture cater to a variety of palates, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or as a starter for a more elaborate dinner, this soup is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Garlic Bread
Serve your Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup with freshly baked garlic bread for a perfect blend of flavors. The crunchy texture of the garlic bread complements the soup’s creaminess beautifully.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
For a classic combination, pair the soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese adds an extra layer of indulgence and pairs perfectly with the tomato flavor.
Croutons and Fresh Herbs
Enhance your soup with homemade croutons and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This adds crunch and freshness, elevating the overall experience of the dish.
Caprese Salad
A light Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complements the soup’s flavors while providing a refreshing contrast. It’s a great side for a balanced meal.
Oven-Roasted Vegetables
Serve your soup alongside a plate of oven-roasted vegetables. The caramelized flavors and added nutrition will create a hearty and wholesome dining experience.
Pasta Salad
A chilled pasta salad with seasonal vegetables can serve as a refreshing accompaniment. The lightness of the salad balances the richness of the soup, creating a harmonious meal.
