Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

A warm, comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect blend of rich flavors, ideal for any season. This simple recipe combines fresh ingredients and a touch of cream for an unforgettable dish.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Parmesan cheese, grated, for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir well. Add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Blend for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a regular blender, then return to the pot.
5. Add Cream and Basil: Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with more basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

20 Popular Questions and Answers

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes, about 10-12 ripe Roma tomatoes, peeled and chopped, can replace the canned ones.
2. Is this soup vegetarian?
   Yes, if you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. What’s the best way to peel fresh tomatoes?
   Blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. The skins will slip right off.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
   Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   Half-and-half, coconut cream, or cashew cream work well for a lighter or dairy-free option.
6. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
   Yes, but fresh basil provides a brighter flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
7. How can I make this soup thicker?
   Simmer longer to reduce liquid or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
8. Can I add protein to this soup?
   Absolutely! Add cooked chicken, sausage, or even shrimp for a hearty twist.
9. How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
   Ensure the soup is not boiling when adding the cream; add it slowly while stirring.
10. What sides go well with this soup?
    Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a side salad complement it perfectly.
11. Can I use almond milk for a dairy-free version?
    Yes, but it won’t be as creamy. Consider using unsweetened cashew cream for better results.
12. What’s the purpose of sugar in the recipe?
    Sugar balances the natural acidity of tomatoes for a smoother flavor.
13. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
    Yes, cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then blend and add cream at the end.
14. What type of blender is best for this soup?
    An immersion blender is convenient, but a high-powered blender gives the creamiest texture.
15. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
    Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
16. Can I add vegetables to this soup?
    Sure! Carrots, celery, or roasted red peppers are great additions.
17. Can I serve this cold?
    While it’s typically served hot, you can chill it for a refreshing summer soup.
18. What kind of tomatoes are best for this soup?
    San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and low acidity.
19. How do I reheat frozen soup?
    Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
20. Can I make this spicy?
    Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

30 Helpful Tips for an Even More Delicious Soup

1. Use high-quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano for the best flavor.
2. Roast fresh tomatoes for a smoky depth.
3. Sauté onions and garlic slowly for a sweet, caramelized base.
4. Add a splash of red wine for extra richness.
5. Use homemade chicken or vegetable broth if possible.
6. Finish with a swirl of pesto for added herbaceous flavor.
7. Stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving for silkiness.
8. Top with homemade croutons for texture.
9. Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated tomato flavor.
10. Use a mix of fresh and dried basil for depth.
11. Add roasted red peppers for sweetness and complexity.
12. Try blending in a small cooked potato for natural creaminess.
13. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess.
14. Use smoked paprika to enhance the savory notes.
15. Stir in cooked tortellini for a heartier meal.
16. Top with shredded mozzarella for a gooey finish.
17. Drizzle with a touch of truffle oil before serving.
18. Include a Parmesan rind while simmering for umami depth.
19. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano.
20. Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.
21. Serve with grilled cheese sticks for dipping.
22. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream for tanginess.
23. Include a pinch of cayenne for subtle heat.
24. Use coconut milk for a unique flavor and creamy texture.
25. Blend with a few cooked carrots for natural sweetness.
26. Add fresh spinach for a nutrient boost.
27. Use a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the creaminess.
28. Stir in cooked quinoa for added protein.
29. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for a fun garnish.
30. Pair with a glass of white wine for a perfect meal.

30 Secrets to Achieving the Perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

1. Balance Acidity: Always add a pinch of sugar or baking soda to reduce tomato acidity.
2. Fresh is Best: Use garden-fresh basil for maximum flavor.
3. Tomato Paste Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste for richness.
4. Low and Slow: Simmer gently to develop flavors without burning.
5. Layering Flavors: Build your soup in layers, starting with aromatics.
6. Cream Addition: Add cream slowly to avoid curdling.
7. Season Gradually: Adjust salt and pepper after simmering.
8. Puréed Perfection: Blend thoroughly for a velvety texture.
9. Stock Quality: Use low-sodium broth to control seasoning.
10. Rind Bonus: A Parmesan rind adds incredible depth of flavor.
11. Oil Finish: A drizzle of olive oil before serving enhances richness.
12. Roasted Tomatoes: Roasting fresh tomatoes elevates flavor.
13. Smoked Options: Use smoked sea salt for a unique twist.
14. Pesto Stir-In: Swirl pesto at the end for extra basil flavor.
15. Pre-Infuse Basil: Simmer basil stems in the soup, then remove before blending.
16. Aged Cheese: Grated aged Parmesan amplifies umami.
17. Custom Creaminess: Blend with cream cheese for a luxurious texture.
18. Skip Water: Never dilute the soup with water—use stock.
19. Caramelization: Brown onions for added sweetness.
20. Oven-Safe: Finish with broiled cheese in an oven-safe bowl.
21. Crispy Basil: Garnish with fried basil leaves.
22. Spice It Up: Add a touch of smoked paprika or cumin for depth.
23. White Wine: Deglaze with white wine for a sophisticated note.
24. Texture Mix: Leave a portion unblended for a rustic feel.
25. Herb Bouquet: Tie basil and thyme together and simmer for easy removal.
26. Season Warm: Taste and season the soup while it’s warm.
27. Vegetable Additions: Carrot purée adds natural sweetness.
28. Light Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream.
29. Double Batch: Make extra and freeze for busy nights.
30. Presentation: Serve in bread bowls for an impressive meal.