Creamy Tomato Soup

Introduction:

Creamy Tomato Soup is a classic, cozy dish that’s perfect for any time of the year, especially on chilly days. The soup is rich and flavorful, often enhanced with fresh basil, a touch of cream, and roasted tomatoes. It’s a simple, yet satisfying recipe that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 (28 oz) cans of whole peeled tomatoes or 4-5 fresh tomatoes (roasted)
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried basil or 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or croutons

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the canned tomatoes (with their juices) or roasted fresh tomatoes. Add the broth and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until smooth, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
4. Add Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, along with the basil. If you like a hint of sweetness, add the optional sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Serve: Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls. Optionally, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, additional fresh basil, or crunchy croutons.

Conclusion: This Creamy Tomato Soup is a velvety, comforting dish that combines the bright flavors of tomatoes with the richness of cream. Whether served on its own or with a side of bread, it’s a timeless recipe that never fails to warm the soul. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen!