Fresh Tomato Soup Recipe: A Burst of Summer in a Bowl
Summer's bounty is at its peak, and what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant and flavorful fresh tomato soup? This recipe captures the essence of ripe, juicy tomatoes, creating a soup that's both simple and sophisticated. Forget canned soup; this homemade version is a taste of sunshine in every spoonful.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to your liking. Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices!
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes: The star of the show! Choose tomatoes that are in-season and bursting with flavor. Roma tomatoes or heirloom varieties work wonderfully.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent aroma and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: You can substitute chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
- Optional additions: Fresh basil, oregano, thyme, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or a swirl of cream for richness.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for a delicious and easy tomato soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Wash and roughly chop the tomatoes. If you're using very large tomatoes, you might want to core them first. This step isn't essential, but it can make blending a bit easier.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are very soft. The longer you simmer, the richer the flavor will be.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender). Blend until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, vent the lid to prevent pressure build-up.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add any optional herbs or spices now. Reheat gently if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with a fresh basil leaf or a swirl of cream.
Tips for the Perfect Bowl:
- Roast your tomatoes: For an even deeper, richer flavor, roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the tomatoes, the better the soup will taste.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Add different herbs and spices to create your own unique version.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day!
Keywords: Fresh Tomato Soup, Tomato Soup Recipe, Homemade Tomato Soup, Easy Tomato Soup Recipe, Summer Soup Recipe, Simple Tomato Soup, Best Tomato Soup
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