Introduction

As winter settles in and chill fills the air, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup. This dish, rich in flavor and easy to prepare, can transform the dreariest of days into something cozy and special.

Using canned tomatoes allows for a vibrant and delicious soup that's accessible at any time of year. With this recipe, you can efficiently create a hearty meal that doesn't require hours of prep, ensuring that comfort food is always within reach.

Let’s dive into the remarkable world of flavors and textures that make this creamy tomato soup a seasonal favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll be enjoying a delicious bowl in no time.

Ingredients

2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes
Canned tomatoes serve as the base for this soup, providing a concentrated flavor that’s both sweet and tangy. The high-quality tomatoes help achieve a rich taste without the need for lengthy cooking.
1 medium onion, chopped
Onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, forming the aromatic foundation of the soup. Cooking them down enhances their natural sugars, making the final dish more complex and satisfying.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic contributes aromatic intensity and adds warmth to the soup. Its savory notes complement the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
2 cups vegetable broth
Vegetable broth creates the necessary liquid base for the soup while adding depth and enhancing the overall umami flavor. It’s a great way to enrich the taste without overpowering the tomatoes.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream brings an irresistible creaminess to the texture, softening the acidity of the tomatoes and creating a luxurious mouthfeel. It turns a simple soup into a rich and satisfying meal.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic, providing a healthy fat source that enhances flavor extraction from the aromatics while also imparting its own mild fruitiness.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning with salt and pepper helps to bring out the flavors of all the other ingredients. Properly seasoning at various stages of cooking ensures a balanced and flavorful soup.
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich tomato base. Its vibrant color and flavor elevate the dish's presentation and flavor complexity.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Heating the olive oil first allows it to warm up, enabling the onions to sauté properly. This step is essential to unlock the flavors of the onion and garlic, setting the stage for a beautifully aromatic soup.

Step 2: Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Sautéing the onion until it's translucent softens its texture and mellows its flavor. This sweetness will balance the acidity of the tomatoes later in the cooking process, providing a harmonious taste.

Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Cooking the garlic until fragrant brings out its essential oils, enhancing the dish's savory notes. It’s important not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter if browned too much.

Step 4: Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice, followed by the vegetable broth.

Adding canned tomatoes and broth creates the bulk of the soup. The juice from the tomatoes contributes richness and flavor, while the broth provides the necessary liquid to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes.

Simmering allows the flavors to meld together, softening the tomatoes and integrating the ingredients. This step is crucial for achieving a well-balanced flavor, so give it time to develop.

Step 6: Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.

Using an immersion blender ensures a creamy, velvety texture without transferring hot liquids to a blender. Blending helps to break down any remaining chunks and fully integrates the ingredients for a unique mouthfeel.

Step 7: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.

The addition of heavy cream transforms the soup, adding richness and smoothing out the acidity of the tomatoes. Allowing it to simmer gently after adding the cream ensures that the flavors combine harmoniously.

Step 8: Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.

Taste-testing provides an opportunity to adjust seasoning based on your preference, ensuring optimal flavor. This final touch is essential for elevating the soup and enhancing the overall taste.

Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil, if desired.

Serving the soup with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh and bright flavor. Presenting the soup nicely will enhance the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable.

Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) step photo

Elevating Your Tomato Soup Experience

While this creaminess of tomato soup shines in simplicity, there are many ways to enhance or customize your version. Consider adding roasted red peppers for a deeper flavor, or incorporating spices like smoked paprika for a subtle hint of smokiness. Additions like croutons, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a swirl of pesto can transform the dish, making it versatile and fun!

Pairing Suggestions for Comfort and Delight

Creamy tomato soup is a delightful comfort food that pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, but don’t stop there. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for balance, or offer a selection of crusty bread for dipping. A crisp white wine can also complement the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing your dining experience.

The Art of Adjusting Texture in Your Soup

If you prefer a chunkier tomato soup, feel free to reserve some of the canned tomatoes to add back in after blending. For a thinner consistency, simply adjust the amount of broth or cream. Always taste as you go; it's an art to get both texture and flavor just right, ensuring each bowl is a satisfying experience.

FAQs

Why is my soup too thick?

If your soup turns out too thick, simply add a little more vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well and heat gently to incorporate the added liquid.

What should I do if the soup tastes bland?

If the soup seems bland, try enhancing it with a dash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Additionally, fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate cooked carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure they are harmonious with the creamy tomato base.

How can I scale this recipe for a larger gathering?

To scale the recipe, increase the quantities of all ingredients proportionally. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary with a larger batch; ensure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

What if I want a spicier soup?

If you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onion and garlic. Adjust to your taste, but remember that flavors intensify as the soup cooks.

How can I make this soup more filling?

For a heartier soup, consider adding cooked pasta or orzo before serving, which adds texture and substance. You can also incorporate protein-rich beans or lentils.

Conclusion

This creamy tomato soup using canned tomatoes is not only easy and quick to prepare, but it also inspires creativity in the kitchen. Whether you're enjoying it solo or serving it to company, each bowl promises to provide warmth and comfort against winter's chill.

Experiment with ingredients and garnishes to make it your own, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from a homemade meal. Let this soup become a staple in your winter cooking repertoire, bringing joy and comfort all season long.

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