Homemade tomato soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, comforting homemade tomato soup. This recipe delivers pure bliss. It’s rich, velvety smooth, and packed with incredible flavor. We’re talking about a hug in a bowl, perfect for refueling after a busy day.

I often whip up a batch for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s so satisfying and pleasing to everyone. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day.

Why I Love This Homemade Tomato Soup

Honestly, this recipe is a weeknight warrior. It comes together so fast. The flavor is incredibly deep and satisfying. It’s also super versatile.

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy evenings.
• Amazing Flavor: Tastes like it simmered for hours.
• So Comforting: A true feel-good meal.

It’s my go-to when I need comfort food fast!

The Best Homemade Tomato Soup Ingredients

The magic of this simple soup starts with a few quality ingredients. They come together beautifully. It creates a symphony of flavor and texture.

Core Ingredients for Homemade Tomato Soup

Unsalted Butter: It’s the base for sautéing. It adds a lovely richness.

Onion and Leek: These aromatics build deep flavor. They form the soup’s foundation.

Canned Plum Tomatoes: These are the stars of our homemade tomato soup. Choose a good brand for the best taste. They’ll get mashed later.

Vegetable Stock: This adds liquid and body. It also contributes savory notes.

Tomato Paste: A little goes a long way. It intensifies that tomato goodness.

Spices and Sugar: Salt, pepper, and a hint of brown sugar balance everything. Basil adds that classic Italian herb taste.

Half-and-Half: This makes our tomato soup wonderfully creamy. It adds luxurious smooth texture.

Fresh Basil and Croutons: These are for garnish. They add freshness and crunch.

Substitutions and Tips for Homemade Tomato Soup

Don’t have unsalted butter? Salted butter works. Just use a bit less salt in the recipe. For the tomatoes, any good quality canned variety is fine. Italian ones are often superb. If you’re not vegetarian, chicken stock is a great alternative. White sugar is okay too. You might need to adjust it. For a dairy-free version, try full-fat coconut milk. It adds creaminess. Want more savory depth? A splash of balsamic vinegar is wonderful. Remember, all exact measurements are in the printable recipe card!

How to Make Homemade Tomato Soup

Making this luscious soup is surprisingly simple. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Follow these easy steps for a wonderful pot of homemade tomato soup.

Sautéing the Aromatics

First, grab a medium pot. A 2-quart size is perfect. Melt the butter over medium heat. It should shimmer. Add the minced onion and chopped leek. Sauté these for about three minutes. Stir them often. This softens them beautifully. It also starts building our flavor base.

Simmering the Soup Base

Next, add the canned plum tomatoes. Pour in the vegetable stock. Add the concentrated tomato paste. Season with pepper and salt. Stir in the brown sugar and dried basil. Give it all a good mix. You can gently crush the tomatoes. Use a sturdy spatula for this. Cover the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, lower the heat. Let it simmer for twenty minutes. This lets the flavors meld.

Finishing and Blending

After simmering, stir in the half-and-half. This brings that lovely creaminess. Gently bring it back to a boil. Then, turn off the heat immediately. Now, it’s time to blend. Use an immersion blender. Purée the soup until it is silky smooth. You can also carefully transfer soup to a regular blender. Blend in batches if needed. Be cautious; hot liquids expand.

Final Seasoning and Serving

Taste your creation. Adjust seasonings if necessary. Does it need more salt? Perhaps a pinch more pepper? Now, serve this delicious homemade tomato soup. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Add crunchy croutons if you like. Enjoy this comforting bowl!

Storing your delicious homemade tomato soup properly keeps it tasting great. It also ensures it’s ready when you need a quick, comforting meal. Proper storage is key for maintaining that wonderful flavor and texture.

You can easily store cooled soup in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it perfect for weekday lunches. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. It preserves the taste beautifully for future cravings.

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Tips for Success with Homemade Tomato Soup

• Use good quality canned tomatoes. It makes a big difference.
• Don’t skip sautéing the onion and leek. This builds essential flavor.
• Blend carefully until very smooth. A creamy texture is delightful.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Personalize it to your liking.
• Add half-and-half at the end. It prevents curdling.
• Serve hot for the best experience. Enjoy your comforting bowl.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Homemade Tomato Soup

• Medium Pot (2-quart): For sautéing and simmering.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping aromatics.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
• Immersion Blender: For smooth blending. A regular blender works too.
• Spatula: For stirring and crushing tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Tomato Soup

• Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s a classic combo.
• Enjoy crusty bread for dipping. It’s wonderfully satisfying.
• Serve a side salad. This adds freshness.
• A dollop of pesto brightens it. Try it for extra flavor.
• Garnish with fresh herbs. This adds visual appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Tomato Soup

Can I make this homemade tomato soup ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! This delicious homemade tomato soup is even better the next day. Letting the flavors meld truly enhances its taste. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s perfect for meal prep during a busy week.

What kind of tomatoes are best for homemade tomato soup?

For the most flavorful homemade tomato soup, I really love using canned whole peeled plum tomatoes. They are typically sweeter and less acidic. Good quality brands, especially Italian ones, make a noticeable difference. You can crush them slightly before adding them to the pot.

How can I make this homemade tomato soup richer or creamier?

To achieve an even richer, creamier texture, you can add a bit more half-and-half. Alternatively, a small amount of heavy cream or even a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt stirred in gently works wonders. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk is a fantastic swap. It adds wonderful creaminess to the soup.

Can I freeze homemade tomato soup?

Yes, freezing this easy tomato soup is a great idea. Make sure it’s completely cooled first. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It should keep well for about 2 to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove. It’s a wonderful way to have comforting soup ready anytime.