Hearty Homemade Tomato Soup
"A Comforting Classic for All Seasons"
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz or 800g) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14 oz or 400g) diced tomatoes
4 cups (960ml) vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (optional, for a creamier soup)
Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Saute the Onion and Garlic:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Blend the Soup (Optional):
If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be sure to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending, and then reheat it afterwards.
Add Cream (Optional):
If you want a creamy tomato soup, stir in the heavy cream and heat the soup through for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
Ladle the homemade tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite bread or crackers.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Homemade Tomato Soup! It's perfect for a cozy meal, especially on a chilly day.
