Tomato basil soup is a classic dish known for its rich flavour, simplicity, and comforting qualities. This soup, made with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, often evokes memories of warmth and home-cooked meals, while also serving as a versatile and nutritious option. It can be enjoyed year-round but is particularly favoured during the cooler months.
In this article, we’ll explore how tomato basil soup is made, the ingredients used, and why it remains an important part of modern cuisine.
How Tomato Basil Soup Is Made
Tomato basil soup is a straightforward recipe that highlights the natural flavours of tomatoes and fresh basil, enhanced by a few key ingredients. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and adaptability, allowing cooks to customise the recipe based on personal preferences. Here's a breakdown of the common method for making this delicious soup.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg fresh ripe tomatoes (or high-quality canned tomatoes)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 750ml vegetable or chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a splash of cream for extra richness
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by preparing your tomatoes. If you are using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need to remove the skins by blanching them. To do this, bring a pot of water to a boil, then place the tomatoes in the water for about 30 seconds. Transfer them immediately to an ice bath, which makes it easy to peel off the skins. Once peeled, chop the tomatoes roughly. If using canned tomatoes, ensure they are of high quality, preferably San Marzano or a similar variety, as they offer excellent flavour.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it brown, as this can make the garlic bitter. The onions and garlic provide a flavourful base for the soup and help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
3. Add the Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, stirring them with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook the tomatoes for about 10 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices. If using canned tomatoes, simply pour them into the pot, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook.
4. Add the Stock
Once the tomatoes have cooked down, pour in the vegetable or chicken stock. The stock will help thin out the soup and add depth to the flavour. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.
5. Blend the Soup
After the soup has simmered, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Use a hand blender to purée the soup until it’s smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave some of the tomatoes whole. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a countertop blender and purée it in batches.
6. Add the Basil
Once the soup is blended, return it to low heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. Basil is added at the end to preserve its bright, aromatic flavour. Allow the basil to wilt into the soup for about 5 minutes, then taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. For an extra indulgent touch, you can also stir in a splash of cream at this stage.
7. Serve
Ladle the tomato basil soup into bowls and garnish with a few extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for dipping, making it a favourite comfort meal.
Why Tomato Basil Soup Is Important
Tomato basil soup is more than just a tasty dish; it holds a special place in both home and professional kitchens for several reasons. Its versatility, nutritional value, and comforting nature make it a go-to choice for many people.
Basil, the other key ingredient, offers its own health benefits. It’s packed with **vitamin K**, which is important for blood clotting, and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Together, tomatoes and basil create a soup that is not only delicious but also good for your overall health.
For those seeking lighter options, tomato basil soup can easily be made without cream, reducing the fat content while still retaining its signature creamy texture through blending. It's also naturally low in calories and can be made vegan or gluten-free, making it a healthy choice for a variety of diets.
Tomato basil soup is incredibly versatile. It can be made with fresh tomatoes in the summer when they are in season, or with high-quality canned tomatoes during the winter months when fresh produce might not be as readily available. This makes it an ideal year-round dish that can be adapted based on what’s available.
Beyond serving it as a soup, tomato basil can be used as a base for other dishes. It can be reduced to create a sauce for pasta or used as a flavourful foundation for stews and casseroles. Some cooks also add rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes to the soup to make it more substantial, turning it into a heartier meal.
The combination of tomatoes and basil is a classic flavour pairing in Mediterranean cuisine, with the fresh, aromatic basil perfectly complementing the sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes. This timeless combination has made its way into soups, sauces, salads, and many other dishes that are now enjoyed worldwide.
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