Imagine sitting down to a warm and comforting meal on a chilly day, with a bowl of mouthwatering Creamy Tomato Basil Soup in front of you. The rich, velvety texture of the soup, combined with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes and fresh basil, is a match made in heaven. And let’s not forget the perfect pairing it makes with a gooey, grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you’re a soup aficionado or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
Start by gathering fresh ripe tomatoes for your creamy tomato basil soup. Choose tomatoes that are firm and bright in color. The taste of the soup will greatly depend on the quality of the tomatoes, so try to pick the best ones you can find.
Fresh basil leaves
The aromatic flavor of fresh basil is what sets this soup apart. Make sure to use fresh basil leaves rather than dried ones for the best flavor. You can find fresh basil leaves in the produce section of your local grocery store or even consider growing your own basil plant at home.
Onion
Onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the soup. You can use any type of onion you prefer, such as yellow onions or red onions. Chop the onion finely to ensure that it cooks evenly and adds a delightful taste to the soup.
Garlic
Garlic is a crucial ingredient in many dishes, and this soup is no exception. It adds a unique depth of flavor and enhances the taste of the tomatoes and basil. Use fresh garlic cloves and mince them finely to release their aromatic oils.
Vegetable broth
Vegetable broth serves as the base for the soup and provides a savory and flavorful liquid. If you prefer a stronger taste, use a homemade vegetable broth. However, store-bought vegetable broth works just as well and saves time in the preparation process.
Heavy cream
The secret to achieving a creamy and velvety consistency is adding heavy cream to the soup. It enriches the flavor and adds a luscious texture. Be sure to use heavy cream rather than light cream or milk to get the desired creamy consistency.
Butter
To add a touch of richness and enhance the overall flavor of the soup, add a pat of butter. Butter helps to bring all the flavors together and adds a smooth and silky texture to the soup.
Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that balance the flavors in the soup. Use them to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Preparation
Prepping the ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to prep all the ingredients. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove any stems or blemishes. Finely chop the fresh basil leaves and set them aside. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic cloves. Measure and prepare the vegetable broth, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process much smoother.
Cooking the soup
Now that you have everything prepped, it’s time to dive into the cooking process and create a delicious creamy tomato basil soup. Follow the step-by-step instructions below for a foolproof cooking experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepping the ingredients
As mentioned earlier, make sure all the ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This includes chopping the tomatoes, basil leaves, onion, and garlic. Measuring out the vegetable broth, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper will also save you time during the cooking process.
Step 2: Sautéing the aromatic vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen, tantalizing your taste buds in anticipation of the final dish.
Step 3: Adding the tomatoes and basil
Once the onion and garlic are sautéed to perfection, it’s time to add the star ingredients: the tomatoes and basil. Carefully add the chopped tomatoes and fresh basil leaves to the pot. Stir everything together and let the flavors meld over medium heat. The tomatoes will start to soften and release their juices, creating a rich and flavorful base for the soup.
Step 4: Simmering the soup
After adding the tomatoes and basil, pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and harmonize. This slow cooking process will intensify the taste of the tomatoes and basil, turning them into a delicious soup.
Step 5: Blending the soup
Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have melded together, it’s time to blend it to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches, blending until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids and ensure that the lid is secured tightly to prevent any accidents. Blend the soup until it reaches a velvety texture that you desire.
Step 6: Finishing touches
Return the blended soup to the pot and place it over low heat. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to incorporate it into the soup. Let the soup heat through until it reaches the desired temperature. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed by adding more salt and pepper according to your preference. Once the soup is heated and seasoned to perfection, it’s ready to be served.
Tips and Variations
Adding roasted red peppers for a twist
For a unique twist on the classic tomato basil soup, consider adding roasted red peppers. Their smoky and slightly sweet flavor will complement the tomatoes and basil beautifully. Simply roast the red peppers in the oven until the skin is charred, then peel and chop them before adding them to the soup during the simmering step. The roasted red peppers will add a delightful depth of flavor to the soup.
Making it spicy with chili flakes
If you enjoy a bit of heat in your soup, spice it up by adding chili flakes. Sprinkle a pinch or two of chili flakes into the soup during the simmering step to give it a spicy kick. Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your desired level of spiciness. The heat from the chili flakes will add a tantalizing and exciting element to the creamy tomato basil soup.
Garnishing ideas
Garnishing your soup can elevate its presentation and add an extra burst of flavor. Try topping your creamy tomato basil soup with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. You can also sprinkle some fresh chopped basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese on top. Croutons, crispy bacon bits, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze make excellent garnish options as well. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to make your soup visually appealing and even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with grilled cheese sandwich
Creamy tomato basil soup and grilled cheese sandwiches are a match made in heaven. The creamy and rich soup provides the perfect contrast to the crispy and gooey grilled cheese. Dip the sandwich into the soup or enjoy them separately. Either way, this classic combination will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Serving as an appetizer or main course
Creamy tomato basil soup can be served as a comforting appetizer or a hearty main course. If you’re planning a multi-course meal, serve it in small bowls or cups as an appetizer to whet your guests’ appetites. Alternatively, pair it with a side salad or a crusty piece of bread for a satisfying and filling main course. The soup’s creamy texture and balanced flavors make it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerating the soup
To store any leftover soup, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Once cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, gently warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid boiling the soup as it may cause the texture to change.
Freezing the soup
If you want to prepare a larger batch of soup for future enjoyment, freezing is a great option. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. Remember to leave some headspace in the container as the soup will expand when frozen. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To defrost, place the container in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Reheating instructions
Whether you’re reheating the soup from the refrigerator or freezer, it’s best to do so slowly over low heat. This will help maintain the creamy texture and prevent the flavors from becoming diluted. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once heated through, your creamy tomato basil soup will be ready to enjoy once again.
Conclusion
Creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed year-round. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a restaurant-quality soup right in your own kitchen. Whether you pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich, serve it as an appetizer, or make it the star of your meal, this creamy tomato basil soup is sure to impress. Get ready to savor the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and velvety cream in every spoonful. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a bowl of warm and satisfying tomato basil goodness.