Introduction to Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade roasted tomato basil soup. Not only does it warm you from the inside out, but it also allows you to tap into your culinary creativity while enjoying wholesome, fresh ingredients. It's a wonderful way to make use of garden-fresh tomatoes, infusing them with flavor through roasting, which enhances their sweetness and richness.
Why You Should Try Making Homemade Soup
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Healthier Options: Creating your own soup gives you control over ingredients, allowing you to choose high-quality produce and adjust seasonings to your preference.
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Simple and Rewarding: The process of making soup is straightforward and perfect for beginners. Plus, there's a certain joy in watching raw ingredients transform into a rich, velvety dish.
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Flexibility: You can easily tailor your recipe by adding herbs or spices and adjusting the texture – whether you prefer it creamy or chunky.
As Monique Volz of Ambitious Kitchen suggests, once you've savored your own roasted tomato basil soup, you'll likely turn your back on store-bought alternatives for good. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making this delicious dish!
Ingredients for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Fresh and vibrant ingredients
Crafting the perfect bowl of homemade roasted tomato basil soup starts with high-quality, fresh ingredients. You'll need:
- 3 pounds roma or plum tomatoes—these juicy varieties pack in the flavor.
- 8 cloves of garlic—brings out the rich aroma when roasted.
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil—for a delightful depth and sheen.
- 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced—caramelized to add sweetness.
- ½ cup basil leaves—nothing beats the bright, aromatic notes of fresh basil!
Don’t forget to season with freshly ground salt and pepper to taste. Choosing the best ingredients will greatly enhance the final result of your soup.
Optional add-ins for extra flavor and creaminess
If you want to take your soup to the next level, consider these optional additions for a richer experience:
- Coconut milk or heavy cream for a decadent, creamy texture.
- Parmesan cheese—just a sprinkle can add a savory kick.
- A tablespoon of butter for a richer mouthfeel.
Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences! Using these optional ingredients can transform your tomato basil soup into something truly special. For more tips on ingredient selection, check out Serious Eats for expert opinions on fresh produce selection.
Step-by-step Preparation for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Making homemade roasted tomato basil soup is not just about cooking; it's an experience filled with delightful aromas and the satisfaction of creating comfort in a bowl. Follow these simple steps to craft a sensational soup that will warm your heart and elevate your kitchen skills!
Preheat and prepare your oven
Start your cooking journey by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleaning a breeze later on! Now, let's get those tomatoes ready. Slice 3 pounds of roma or plum tomatoes in half and scatter them on the sheet, alongside 8 peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle everything with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground salt and pepper to taste. This step sets the stage for that rich, savory flavor you’re after.
Roast the tomatoes and garlic
Once the oven is hot, pop the baking sheet in and let the tomatoes and garlic roast for 40-45 minutes. The trick here is to allow the tomatoes to caramelize. This process intensifies their sweetness and adds complexity to your soup. If you're curious about the science behind roasting vegetables, check out this detailed article from Epicurious.
Caramelize the onions for maximum flavor
While your tomatoes and garlic are roasting, it’s the perfect time to bring out the sweetness in your onions. In a large pot, heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and add 2 thinly sliced yellow onions. Stir those onions well to coat them with the oil. This isn’t a quick step; you’ll want to cook them for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and caramelized. The patience will reward you with a depth of flavor that can’t be beaten!
Blend the roasted ingredients
Once your tomatoes and garlic have nicely roasted, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a food processor or a high-powered blender. Add in your beautifully caramelized onions and ½ cup packed basil leaves to the blender, blending until silky smooth. If you don’t have a blender, an immersion blender works wonders right in the pot!
Combine everything and simmer
Now that you have your silky concoction, return it to your pot. Heat it on medium-low and add 1-2 cups of water or vegetarian broth depending on how thick you like your soup. Don’t forget to sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of dried oregano and additional salt and pepper to taste. If you want it creamier, feel free to stir in some light coconut milk or heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes to meld those irresistible flavors together, and your homemade roasted tomato basil soup will be ready to serve!
Garnish with parmesan cheese or fresh basil for an extra touch of flair. Enjoy your delightful creation with a warm grilled cheese sandwich on the side. Your taste buds will thank you!
Variations on Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Adding a Spicy Kick
If you love a bit of heat, consider spicing up your homemade roasted tomato basil soup with red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This not only intensifies the flavor but also awakens your taste buds! For an exotic twist, try adding a dash of harissa or sriracha — both can elevate your soup to new flavor heights without overwhelming its core essence.
Creamy Alternatives for Different Diets
Whether you're vegan, dairy-free, or just looking for alternatives, there are plenty of ways to keep your homemade roasted tomato basil soup creamy. For a vegan option, use light or regular coconut milk for richness. If you prefer dairy, whole milk or heavy cream works beautifully for a comforting texture. Additionally, adding a splash of cashew cream can give your soup a luscious feel while keeping it plant-based. Don't shy away from incorporating nutritional yeast for a cheesy essence without the dairy!
These variations not only cater to different dietary preferences but also allow you to explore flavors and textures in your soup.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Essential tools for success
To whip up a delightful batch of homemade roasted tomato basil soup, you’ll need a few trusty kitchen tools:
- Large baking sheet: For roasting your tomatoes and garlic.
- Food processor or blender: To achieve that velvety smooth texture.
- Large pot: Perfect for caramelizing onions and simmering the soup.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To ensure the right flavor balance.
Having these essentials ready makes the process a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying the cooking experience!
Storing and freezing your soup
Leftover homemade roasted tomato basil soup can be a boon for busy days. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four to five days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave—easy peasy!
If you want to stockpile some for later, freeze it in a freezer-friendly container for up to three months. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating. Your future self will thank you! For more tips on freezing soups, check out this helpful guide.
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal
Transform your homemade roasted tomato basil soup into a comforting meal by pairing it with delicious sides. Here are my top suggestions:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic choice! Use sharp cheddar or creamy mozzarella for melty goodness that complements the tangy soup.
- Crusty Bread: A fresh baguette or artisan loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup.
- Simple Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
- Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham: For some added protein, crispy turkey bacon or chicken ham adds a savory crunch.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings to elevate your soup night!
Time Breakdown for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Preparation Time
The prep for this delicious homemade roasted tomato basil soup takes about 15 minutes. That includes washing and chopping your tomatoes, peeling garlic, and slicing onions.
Cooking Time
Once everything’s prepped, the cooking process requires around 1 hour and 10 minutes. This includes roasting the tomatoes and garlic, caramelizing the onions, and simmering the soup.
Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at a total time of about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish. Make sure you have some time to enjoy your creation—perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner!
Ready to dive into a warm bowl filled with the flavors of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil? Check out our full recipe here and let’s get cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
If you're curious about the health benefits of this homemade roasted tomato basil soup, you're in for a treat! Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 214 - A satisfying way to warm up without overindulging.
- Protein: 3.1g - A small but essential boost, especially when paired with protein-rich sides, like a grilled cheese.
- Carbohydrates: 21.3g - Providing the right amount of energy to keep you going through the day.
This soup creatively combines rich flavors and wholesome nutrition, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or comforting dinner. For a deeper dive into nutrition, check out Nutrition.gov for more insights!
FAQs about Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes can be a great substitute, especially if fresh ones aren’t in season. Opt for fire-roasted canned tomatoes to add a depth of flavor. Just remember to adjust the roasting time and skip the garlic roasting, as the canned tomatoes will blend up smoothly without additional cooking.
How do I make the soup less acidic?
If you find your homemade roasted tomato basil soup a bit too tangy, there are a few tricks to mellow the acidity. Adding a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream can balance the flavors nicely. You might also consider incorporating a small amount of baking soda, which can neutralize the acidity without altering the soup's flavor too much.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep well for about 4–5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge before reheating. This makes for a delightful quick meal later on!
For more tips on preserving your soups, check out this expert guide that dives into food storage best practices.
Conclusion on Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
In summary, this homemade roasted tomato basil soup is a delightful blend of flavors that elevates your meal. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and bursting with freshness. Serve it alongside your favorite sandwich or enjoy it on its own. You won’t regret trying this recipe!
Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Equipment
- baking sheet
- food processor or blender
- large pot
- 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
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 2 yellow onions thinly sliced
Additions to the soup
- ½ cup packed basil leaves
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1-2 cups water or vegetarian broth depending on how thick you want the soup
- 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 enhancing flavor
- 1-2 tablespoons butter for richer flavor
Instructions
Roasting and Preparing
- 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, add ½ tablespoon olive oil to a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion slices and stir to coat. Cook, stirring occasionally, checking onions every 5-10 minutes until caramelized and golden, usually about 20 minutes.
- Once tomatoes and garlic are done roasting, allow them to cool for 10 minutes, then add to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Next, add basil and caramelized onions and blend again.
- Transfer back to pot, turn to medium low heat, and add in oregano, vegetarian broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Allow soup to simmer for 10 minutes before serving, garnishing with parmesan cheese if desired.
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