Tomato Soup Recipe for a Cozy Night In – Flavorful & Easy

Introduction

Tomato soup, with its vibrant color and deep flavors, has long been a staple in kitchens around the world. It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, capable of turning any day around. Whether you’re seeking solace on a cold winter day or a quick, nutritious meal, tomato soup is there to comfort and nourish.

Tomato Soup Ingredients: Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes

The choice between fresh and canned tomatoes can significantly influence the flavor, texture, and convenience of your preparation. Both options have their merits, and your decision might depend on factors like the season, the specific recipe you’re following (such as a roasted tomato soup recipe or a healthy tomato soup recipe), and personal taste preferences. Let’s delve into the characteristics of each:

Fresh Tomatoes

• Flavor and Texture: Fresh tomatoes, especially when in season, can offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor. The texture can vary greatly depending on the type of tomato used. For the best tomato soup recipe, many prefer using ripe, in-season tomatoes for their depth of flavor.
• Preparation: Using fresh tomatoes often requires more preparation time. They typically need to be blanched, peeled, and seeded before being used in a soup. This can be worthwhile for those seeking the freshest taste or adhering to a healthy tomato soup recipe that emphasizes whole, unprocessed ingredients.
• Variety: The type of tomato can greatly affect the soup’s outcome. Heirloom tomatoes can add unique flavors, while plum tomatoes are often favored for their meaty texture and lower water content, making them ideal for a thicker soup.

Canned Tomatoes

• Convenience: Canned tomatoes are a convenient, year-round option. They can save a significant amount of prep time and are often preferred in recipes like a quick and easy canned tomato soup recipe.
• Consistency: Canned tomatoes offer consistency in flavor and texture, making them a reliable choice for your soup. This can be particularly advantageous for recipes like a roasted tomato soup recipe, where the roasted flavor is more prominent than the freshness of the tomato itself.
• Variety: There are various types of canned tomatoes available, including whole peeled, diced, and crushed. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes can add a smoky depth to your soup, aligning well with recipes that call for a roasted flavor profile.

Nutritional Aspect

Both fresh and canned tomatoes are healthy options, rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene. However, canned tomatoes can have added sodium, so it’s wise to look for low-sodium varieties if you’re following a healthy tomato soup recipe.

Tomato Soup Calories

The calorie content of tomato soup can vary depending on the ingredients used. Generally, soups made with fresh tomatoes might have slightly fewer calories than those made with canned tomatoes, mainly due to the latter’s potential additional ingredients like sugar or salt. However, the difference is often minimal, and both can be part of a healthy diet.

Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe: A Rich Flavor Profile

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (about 900g) fresh tomatoes, halved (for a more intense flavor, consider a mix of heirloom tomatoes)
• 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, unpeeled (they’ll be roasted and then squeezed out of their skins)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 4 cups (about 1 liter) vegetable broth (for a richer flavor, chicken broth can also be used)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or coconut milk for a vegan version
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). This high temperature is ideal for roasting the tomatoes and bringing out their natural sweetness.

Prepare the Tomatoes:

On a large baking sheet, toss the halved tomatoes, onion quarters, and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure even roasting.

Roast the Vegetables:

Roast in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the tomatoes are well caramelized. This step is crucial for developing the soup’s rich flavor profile.

Blend the Soup:

Once roasted, let the vegetables cool slightly, then squeeze the garlic out of its skin. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot), adding part of the vegetable broth to facilitate blending. Puree the mixture until smooth.

Simmer:

Pour the blended mixture into a large pot. Add the remaining vegetable broth and bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 20-30 minutes. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Final Touches:

Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Nutritional Information:

This roasted tomato soup recipe, especially when made with fresh ingredients and controlled amounts of salt, aligns well with a healthy eating plan. The addition of heavy cream or coconut milk adds a luxurious texture and richness, but for those counting calories, the amount can be adjusted or omitted. The soup is naturally high in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, making it not only a delicious but also a nutritious choice.

Healthy Tomato Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Use fresh tomatoes or low-sodium canned tomatoes. Skip the heavy cream or use a light plant-based alternative. Increase the variety of vegetables by adding carrots or celery.

Preparation:

• Enhance flavor with additional herbs and spices instead of salt. Consider adding a bit of chili flakes for heat without calories.

Best Tomato Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Opt for a mix of fresh and high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes. Include both olive oil and a bit of butter for sautéing. Use homemade stock if available and finish with a splash of brandy or sherry.

Preparation:

• Roast the fresh tomatoes and garlic before adding them to the pot for a deeper flavor. Finish the soup with heavy cream and a pat of butter for richness. Garnish with homemade croutons or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

Canned Tomato Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Rely solely on canned tomatoes for the base. Use dried herbs for convenience and include a simple roux (made from a small amount of flour and butter) to thicken the soup.

Preparation:

• Focus on quick sautéing of onion and garlic using garlic powder if short on time. The soup can be ready in as little as 15-20 minutes of simmering. Optional add-ins like cooked pasta or rice can make the soup heartier.

Pumpkin Tomato Soup: A Fall Favorite

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (about 450g) fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped, or 1 can (28 ounces) of whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) of pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cream, coconut milk, or a dollop of sour cream for serving
• Fresh herbs (such as sage or thyme) for garnish

Preparation Method:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes with their juice) and cook for a few minutes until they begin to break down.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, with a swirl of cream or coconut milk and a garnish of fresh herbs.

Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning: Preserving the Harvest

Ingredients:

• 10 lbs of fresh tomatoes, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 2 cups chopped onions
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1/2 cup lemon juice (for canning safety, to acidify the soup)
• Herbs of choice (basil, thyme, oregano), either fresh or dried

Preparation Method:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the onions, celery, carrots, and garlic until they start to soften.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, sugar (if using), pepper, and herbs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and blend the soup in batches until smooth, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
4. Return the soup to the pot and bring it back to a simmer. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to each pint jar (or 2 tablespoons per quart jar) to ensure safe acidity levels for canning.
5. Ladle the hot soup into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean, and seal with lids and bands.
6. Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes for pints or 40 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude as necessary.
7. Remove jars and let them cool. Check seals, then store in a cool, dark place.

Where Should You Take the Temperature of Tomato Basil Soup?

To ensure your tomato basil soup is heated to a safe and enjoyable temperature, you should take its temperature in the center of the pot. Avoid taking the temperature too close to the pot’s sides or bottom, as these areas might be hotter and give you an inaccurate reading of the soup’s overall temperature. Here’s how to do it correctly:

• Stir the Soup: Before taking the temperature, stir the soup well. This helps distribute the heat evenly throughout, ensuring a more accurate temperature reading.
• Use a Food Thermometer: Insert a food thermometer into the center of the soup pot, making sure the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom or sides of the pot.
• Check the Temperature: The ideal serving temperature for tomato basil soup is around 160°F to 180°F (71°C to 82°C). This range ensures the soup is hot enough to be enjoyable without being so hot that it might cause burns.
• Reheat if Necessary: If the soup hasn’t reached the desired temperature, continue heating it on the stove, stirring occasionally, and then recheck the temperature.

Pairing Suggestions:

Garlic Bread Recipe: Crispy or Soft, You Decide

• The timeless combination of tomato soup and garlic bread is unbeatable. This Garlic Bread recipe offers a customizable approach, allowing you to choose between a crispy or soft finish. The aromatic garlic and buttery bread make for an irresistible dipper or side, adding a satisfying crunch or softness to your soup experience.

Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe

• For a more substantial meal, pairing tomato soup with lasagna is a match made in heaven. This Easy Homemade Lasagna recipe provides a hearty and comforting dish that complements the soup’s smooth texture with its layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce. It’s a perfect option for a family dinner or when you’re looking to impress guests.

King Arthur Baking’s No-Knead Crusty White Bread

• This recipe offers a simple yet satisfying way to make artisan-style bread at home, perfect for pairing with tomato soup.

FAQs About Tomato Soup

• What does tomato soup do for your body? Tomato soup is rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, offering numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
• What is tomato soup made of? At its core, tomato soup consists of tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Variations may include cream, vegetables, and herbs to enhance flavor and texture.
• What can I add to tomato soup to make it taste better? Enhancements like cream, fresh herbs, croutons, or a swirl of pesto can elevate the flavor of tomato soup.
• What is the thickener in tomato soup? Common thickeners include flour, cornstarch, or even bread, blended into the soup to achieve a creamy consistency.

Conclusion:

Tomato soup remains a beloved dish worldwide, cherished for its comforting warmth and versatility. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a classic recipe or the richness of a roasted variation, there’s a tomato soup to satisfy every palate. So, the next time you’re in need of a comforting meal, remember that a bowl of tomato soup is just a few ingredients away.