Introduction to Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally loved as soup, especially a rich and hearty bowl of homemade roasted tomato basil soup. Making your own soup not only allows you to control the ingredients but also elevates its taste to a level that store-bought options often lack. Did you know that many commercial soups are packed with preservatives and sodium? By preparing your own, you can ensure each ingredient is fresh and wholesome.
Think about it—fresh tomatoes bursting with flavor, fragrant garlic, and aromatic basil create a symphony of taste that’s incredibly satisfying. Plus, cooking at home gives you the opportunity to experiment with flavors and textures. Want a creamier consistency? Add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of heavy cream. Looking for extra depth? A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese brings a wonderful tang.
Not only does homemade roasted tomato basil soup taste better, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up an abundance of garden tomatoes or leftover produce. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those fresh ingredients, and let’s create a comforting bowl of goodness that you’ll be proud to serve. For more reasons to choose homemade, check out this article on the benefits of cooking from scratch.
Ingredients for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Key ingredients for a delicious soup
Creating a flavorful homemade roasted tomato basil soup starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Roma or plum tomatoes: A generous 3 pounds gives depth and sweetness.
- Garlic: Eight cloves add robust flavor, perfectly complemented by roasting.
- Olive oil: Three tablespoons enhance the soup’s richness.
- Onions: Two yellow onions, caramelized, contribute a sweet undertone.
- Fresh basil: Half a cup packs in that classic basil pop.
- Vegetarian broth or water: Adjust the liquid to achieve your preferred thickness.
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
Optional add-ins for extra creaminess
For those who love a creamy texture, you have wonderful options:
- Coconut milk: Add half a cup for a vegan-friendly, rich taste.
- Dairy milk or heavy cream: A touch elevates the soup’s creaminess significantly.
- Parmesan cheese: Stir in for a tangy twist that lifts the flavor.
- Butter: A tablespoon or two provides a luscious finish.
Feel free to mix and match these add-ins to customize your perfect bowl of soup! Want to dive deeper into the benefits of fresh ingredients? Check out this article on Eating Well.
Step-by-step preparation of Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Preparing homemade roasted tomato basil soup is an enjoyable process that leaves your kitchen filled with delicious aromas. Follow these straightforward steps to make a soul-soothing soup that brings warmth to any table.
Preheat the oven and prepare tomatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. While it warms up, get your ingredients ready. Slice 3 pounds of roma or plum tomatoes in half and arrange them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add 8 peeled garlic cloves to the mix, then drizzle everything with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with freshly ground salt and pepper—it’s the seasoning that enhances the natural flavors! Pop the sheet in the oven and roast for 40-45 minutes. This step is crucial, as roasting concentrates the tomatoes' sweetness and deepens their flavor.
Caramelize the onions while tomatoes roast
While your tomatoes are roasting, it’s the perfect time to caramelize the onions. In a large pot, add ½ tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in 2 thinly sliced yellow onions and stir to coat them in oil. Patience is key here; let them cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until they're beautifully golden brown. Caramelized onions add depth to your soup, so don’t rush this step!
Blend roasted tomatoes and garlic
Once the tomatoes and garlic have finished roasting, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. This prevents any mishaps when blending! Add the roasted tomatoes and garlic to a food processor or high-powered blender and process until smooth. For a more rustic version, consider using an immersion blender directly in the pot. Next, toss in ½ cup of basil leaves and the caramelized onions, blending again until all elements are well combined. The essence of your homemade roasted tomato basil soup is coming together!
Combine all ingredients in a pot
After blending, transfer the mixture back to your pot. Turn the heat to medium-low, then stir in ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, along with 1-2 cups of water or vegetarian broth, depending on your desired thickness. Season with additional salt and pepper to your taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of light coconut milk or even a bit of Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Simmer and serve the delicious soup
Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully. When you're ready to serve, garnishing with extra basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan adds a lovely touch. Pair this delightful soup with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal! Enjoy your homemade creation and feel free to invite friends over to share—you’ll be their favorite chef in no time!
For more tips on incorporating fresh ingredients into your meals, check out Cooking Light’s guide on seasonal vegetables. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations on Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Creamy Vegan Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Looking to keep it plant-based? You can easily swap in light coconut milk for a deliciously creamy texture without any dairy. Just blend it in at the end with your roasted tomatoes and basil, giving you that luscious mouthfeel you crave. This variation is great for those who want to indulge without the dairy!
Tomato Basil Soup with a Twist
Want to take your homemade roasted tomato basil soup to the next level? Consider adding smoked paprika for a bit of depth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar to elevate that sweetness from the tomatoes. Feel free to toss in some red pepper flakes for a kick if you're feeling adventurous! These simple tweaks can make your soup truly unforgettable.
For more inspiration, check out this great article on soup variations. Happy cooking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Best Techniques for Caramelizing Onions
Caramelizing onions is an essential step in creating depth for your homemade roasted tomato basil soup. Begin with a large, heavy pot over medium heat. Add just a half tablespoon of olive oil and the thinly sliced onions. Stir them frequently, allowing them to soften and release their natural sugars. Patience is key here; aim for a gentle heat, as speeding things up can lead to burnt edges rather than that lovely golden color. It usually takes around 20 minutes, but your taste buds will thank you for the wait!
Ingredient Substitutions for a Lighter Soup
Want a lighter version of this comforting soup? Instead of heavy cream, try using light coconut milk or even cashew cream for creaminess without the calories. You can also swap out some of the tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a unique twist. Feeling adventurous? Use a splash of vegetable broth in place of water to amp up the flavor. Don't forget that fresh herbs like basil can add a surprising brightness, making your homemade roasted tomato basil soup not only light but also refreshing!
Serving suggestions for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Accompaniments to enhance your soup experience
To elevate your homemade roasted tomato basil soup, consider serving it with a side of crunchy toasted bread or a lovely caprese salad featuring fresh mozzarella and basil. You can't go wrong with a side of garlic bread either; it adds that delightful crunch and flavor that perfectly complements the soup. For something heartier, try pairing with Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
Perfect pairings for a cozy meal
Feeling cozy? Pair your soup with grilled cheese made with thick, artisan bread, or opt for a gourmet twist like pesto-infused cheese. For drinks, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a soothing herbal tea can balance the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. These combinations not only enhance your culinary experience but also make for a delightful dinner conversation starter, don’t you think?
Looking for more inspiration? Check out Food & Wine for ideas on delicious sides and drinks!
Time breakdown for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 15 minutes. You’ll want to wash, cut, and season your tomatoes, peel the garlic, and slice those onions for caramelizing.
Cooking time
The soup takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to cook. This includes roasting those sweet tomatoes and garlic, followed by simmering everything together.
Total time
In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you're craving a comforting bowl of homemade roasted tomato basil soup!
For more detailed cooking tips and variations on this classic recipe, check out this helpful guide from Food Network.
Nutritional facts for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Calories per serving
A satisfying serving of this homemade roasted tomato basil soup packs in approximately 214 calories. This makes it an enjoyable and guilt-free option for lunch or dinner!
Key nutrients
Aside from being low in calories, this delicious soup also contains essential nutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 21.3g
- Protein: 3.1g
- Fat: 13.6g (with only 1.7g of saturated fat)
- Fiber: 3.4g
- Sugar: 8.6g
Rich in vitamins C and K, the fresh tomatoes and basil in your soup offer fantastic health benefits. Research indicates that tomatoes are high in antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation (source: Healthline). Enjoy this soup as a wholesome option that supports your wellness journey!
FAQs about Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh tomatoes bring a vibrant flavor, canned tomatoes can be a great substitute, especially when they're high-quality and packed in juice. Just drain them slightly if they're too watery, and follow the same roasting process to build that rich flavor.
How do I store leftover soup?
To keep your homemade roasted tomato basil soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I add for extra protein?
If you're looking to amp up the protein in your soup, consider adding a scoop of cooked lentils or chickpeas. You can also stir in some chopped turkey bacon or chicken ham for a savory touch. And for those preferring a vegetarian option, cooked quinoa or tofu can work wonders too!
For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out resources like Joy of Cooking.
Conclusion on Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
In closing, this homemade roasted tomato basil soup is a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients while warming your soul. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s the kind of dish that invites seconds. Give it a try, and you just might find your new favorite comfort food!
Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Equipment
- baking sheet
- large pot
- Food processor
- Immersion blender
Ingredients
For the roasted tomatoes
- 3 pounds roma or plum tomatoes cut in half
- 8 cloves garlic peeled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground salt and pepper
For the caramelized onions
- 0.5 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 yellow onions thinly sliced
Additions to the soup
- 0.5 cup packed basil leaves
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1-2 cups water or vegetarian broth depending on thickness
- Freshly ground salt and pepper to taste
Optional add ins
- Light/Regular coconut milk for a creamy vegan soup
- Whole dairy milk/heavy cream for a creamy texture
- Parmesan cheese for a tangy flavor
- 1-2 tablespoons butter for richer flavor
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place halved tomatoes and garlic cloves on the baking sheet and drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Generously season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes.
- While the tomatoes are roasting, you can make the caramelized onions: Add ½ tablespoon olive oil to a large pot and place over medium heat. Add the onion slices and stir to coat the onions with olive oil. Cook, stirring occasionally. Check onions every 5-10 minutes until they have completely caramelized and turned golden in color. This usually takes 20 minutes.
- Once tomatoes and garlic are done roasting, allow them to cool for 10 minutes, then add them to a food processor or high powered blender and blend until smooth. Next add basil and caramelized onions and blend again. Alternatively you can add the tomatoes to the large pot and use an immersion blender.
- After blending, transfer back to pot, turn to medium low heat and add in oregano, vegetarian broth and salt and pepper to taste. Allow tomato soup to simmer 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parmesan cheese and serve.
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