Tomato soup with basil

Delicious Tomato Basil Soup - A Delight for the Soul and Stomach

When it comes to culinary comfort, tomato basil soup is one of those recipes that revives unforgettable memories. This soup is not just a simple dish; it is a warm embrace in a bowl, full of fresh flavors and a velvety texture. Whether you enjoy it at lunch or as a light dinner, this dish will bring a smile to your face.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 kg ripe tomatoes (for an authentic tomato soup flavor)
- 125 ml cream (for added creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste (to enhance the flavor)
- 1 cube of butter (for a rich taste)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 1 carrot (for natural sweetness)
- 5 cloves of garlic (for an aromatic note)
- 1/2 bunch of parsley (for freshness)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves (for distinctive aroma)
- 3 cups chicken broth (or water, according to preference)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparation Technique

1. Peeling the Tomatoes: Start by peeling the tomatoes. Cut the stem end off the tomatoes, then make an 'X' cut at the other end. Place them in boiling water for about 5 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of very cold water. This thermal shock will make the skins come off easily. You can enjoy a moment of relaxation while the tomatoes cool; maybe practice your chopping skills or think of other recipes where you could use tomatoes.

2. Preparing the Vegetables: In a medium pot, melt the cube of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and carrot. At this point, the aroma will start to fill your kitchen. After 2-3 minutes, add the sliced garlic, parsley, and a few basil leaves. Mix well, and to prevent the butter from burning, pour in 3-4 tablespoons of the reserved tomato juice.

3. Boiling the Soup: Cover the pot and let the vegetables soften over low heat, stirring occasionally. This step is essential as it releases the flavors from the vegetables and creates an incredible flavor base. After about 10 minutes, add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Personally, I like to use concentrated chicken broth that I prepare and freeze for later use, but you can also use water or store-bought broth.

4. Adding the Flavors: Add 3 cups of water, the tomato paste, cream, and the remaining basil leaves. Mix all the ingredients well and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, until the vegetables are well cooked. If using canned tomatoes, the cooking time can be reduced.

5. Final Step: Once the vegetables are cooked, let the soup cool slightly to avoid unpleasant splashes. Use a blender to achieve a smooth consistency. If you don’t have a blender, you can use an immersion mixer.

6. Serving: You can serve the soup warm, garnished with toasted croutons or crispy bacon slices. Cheese tarts are also an excellent choice to accompany this dish.

Chef's Tip

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a few drops of extra virgin olive oil or balsamic vinegar before serving. These will enhance the soup's taste and add a touch of sophistication.

Nutritional Benefits

This tomato basil soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. Additionally, basil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making this soup not only tasty but also healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if you don’t have access to fresh ones. Make sure to choose a quality brand for the best flavor.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and for longer storage, you can freeze it in small portions.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even spices like chili to give the soup a bit of heat.

Possible Variations

- Tomato Soup with Mozzarella: Add cubes of mozzarella at the end and let them melt slightly.
- Tomato Soup with Quinoa: Add cooked quinoa for a heartier and protein-rich version.
- Tomato Soup with Aromatic Herbs: Replace basil with herbs like oregano or thyme for a different aroma.

Conclusion

This tomato basil soup is not just a simple recipe but also an opportunity to enjoy the flavor of fresh ingredients. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your personal preferences, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. So, embrace the nature of cooking with an open heart and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!