Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of homemade soup. If you’re craving comfort, my One-Pot Tomato Basil Soup is both easy and bursting with flavor. In this guide, I’ll share simple steps to whip up this cozy dish, along with tips and tricks to enhance your experience. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this recipe will make you a soup star in no time! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make this easy one-pot tomato basil soup, gather these key ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Croutons or toasted bread, for serving
Optional Ingredients for Variation
You can change the flavor of your soup with these optional ingredients:
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley
- A splash of balsamic vinegar for depth
- Parmesan cheese for a richer taste
Recommended Brands or Alternatives
When choosing your ingredients, consider these trusted brands:
- For olive oil, use extra virgin from brands like California Olive Ranch.
- Hunt’s offers good canned tomatoes that are flavorful.
- Swanson is a reliable option for vegetable broth.
- For heavy cream, Land O’Lakes is a solid choice, while So Delicious provides great coconut cream.
These ingredients will help you create a delicious, flavorful soup that warms the soul.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Gather your ingredients. You need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Croutons or toasted bread, for serving
2. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This helps the flavors bloom.
Cooking Steps
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Wait for it to shimmer.
2. Add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns soft and clear.
3. Stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until you smell that great aroma.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix it well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
6. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. This lets the flavors blend nicely.
7. Remove the pot from heat. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. If you don’t have one, carefully pour it into a blender in batches.
8. Return the pot to the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and warm it gently. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
9. Serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy with croutons or toasted bread.
Tips for Using an Immersion Blender
- Make sure your pot is deep enough. This helps prevent splatters.
- Blend slowly at first. This helps to avoid a messy kitchen.
- Keep the blender submerged. This ensures a smooth blend without lumps.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, use a regular blender. Blend in small batches for safety.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Flavor
To get the best flavor in your soup, use fresh ingredients. Fresh basil adds a bright taste. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for rich flavor. Adding sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Don’t rush the simmering step; let the soup cook for at least 15 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend well. Stir in the cream slowly for a creamy texture. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not sautéing the onion long enough. If the onion is not soft, the soup lacks depth. Another mistake is skipping the blending step. Blending makes the soup smooth and creamy. Be careful not to add too much salt at once. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out. Lastly, avoid overcooking the basil. Add it right before serving to keep its fresh aroma.
Additional Garnishing Ideas
Garnishing can make your soup look and taste special. Try adding croutons for crunch. A drizzle of olive oil on top adds richness. You can also use a sprinkle of grated cheese for extra flavor. For a fresh twist, add a dollop of pesto or a squeeze of lemon juice. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the dish. Get creative with your garnishes to make the soup uniquely yours!
Variations
Vegan Adaptation
To make this soup vegan, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Coconut cream adds a rich, creamy texture without dairy. You can also add extra veggies, like carrots or bell peppers, to boost flavor. These ingredients are healthy, colorful, and filling.
Gluten-Free Options
This soup is gluten-free by nature since it doesn’t use any gluten-based products. Just be sure your vegetable broth is labeled gluten-free. You can serve it with gluten-free bread or croutons. This way, everyone can enjoy a warm bowl without worry.
Adding Proteins like Chicken or Beans
For a heartier soup, you can add proteins. If you like chicken, cook it separately and add it to the soup before serving. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well. If you prefer beans, try adding a can of drained and rinsed white beans. They add protein and texture without changing the soup’s flavor.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your soup, let it cool down. Pour the soup into airtight containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top. This space helps when the soup expands. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Always label it with the date. This way, you won’t forget!
Freezing Instructions
If you want to keep your soup longer, freezing is a great choice. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave space in the bags, too. You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps it tasty and fresh.
Reheating Tips
Reheating is easy! You can use a pot on the stove or a microwave. If using a pot, heat it on low. Stir often to avoid burning. If using a microwave, use short bursts of heat. Stir in between to help it warm evenly. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of water or broth.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, heat it on the stove. Stir gently until warm. This soup keeps well for about three days.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use coconut cream. It adds a nice flavor too. You could also use milk or a non-dairy milk. Almond milk or oat milk works well. Just know that these will change the soup’s texture slightly.
How do I make the soup spicier?
To add some heat, try red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste. You can also add a dash of hot sauce. For a fresh kick, mix in some diced jalapeños. These changes will make your soup warm and flavorful.
We explored soup-making from start to finish. You learned about key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. I shared ways to adapt recipes for vegan, gluten-free, or protein-packed versions. Storing leftovers and reheating tips can help you enjoy your soup longer.
By following this guide, you can make a soup that suits your taste. Now, grab your immersion blender and get cooking! Enjoy every warm and comforting bowl.
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