This comforting tomato soup is just like Grandma used to make! With fresh tomatoes, creamy goodness, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Whenever I make this, I can’t help but think of cozy kitchen days. Pair it with a grilled cheese, and it feels like a walk down memory lane! 🍅🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Either works well! I often use olive oil for a lighter taste. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, go with butter.
Onion: A medium yellow onion brings sweetness. If you need a substitute, shallots or leeks can add a lovely flavor, too!
Tomatoes: Canned whole peeled tomatoes are convenient and flavorful. Fresh tomatoes are great in summer—just ensure they’re ripe for maximum sweetness. If fresh aren’t available, use good-quality canned ones.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it light, while chicken broth offers a deeper flavor. You can even use homemade broth if you have some on hand!
Heavy Cream or Milk: I prefer heavy cream for a nice, rich finish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk will work fine. Non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk can also add a unique taste!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Tomatoes?
Getting the most flavor from tomatoes is all about how you cook them. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by sautéing onions in oil or butter until they’re soft. This builds a flavor base.
- Next, add garlic just before the tomatoes to keep its bright taste.
- Cook the tomatoes with broth and seasonings, letting it simmer. The longer simmering helps deepen the flavor.
- Blending the mixture smooths the texture and combines the flavors beautifully.
Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving—this makes all the difference!
Classic Grandma’s Homemade Tomato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes or 3-4 lbs fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delicious homemade tomato soup ready in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep it from browning. When the onion is ready, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
2. Mix in the Tomatoes and Broth:
Next, add the tomatoes to the pot, including their juices if you’re using canned tomatoes. If you have fresh tomatoes, add them chopped. Pour in the broth, and if you’re using it, stir in the tomato paste, sugar, basil, and oregano. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. This simmering time helps develop all those yummy flavors!
3. Blend It Up:
After simmering, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s nice and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and puree until smooth. Just watch your fingers as it can be hot!
4. Add the Cream and Season:
Return the blended soup to the pot if necessary and stir in the heavy cream or milk. Heat the soup gently over low heat to warm it up but be careful not to let it boil. Finally, taste the soup and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if you’d like. Now, enjoy a heartwarming bowl of Grandma’s homemade tomato soup—all cozy and delicious!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, make sure they are ripe for the best flavor. Chop 3-4 lbs of fresh tomatoes and add them in the same step as you would canned tomatoes. The soup may need a few extra minutes to simmer to reach the desired consistency.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
It’s simple! Just ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk for a vegan-friendly option.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove. If you’d like, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to leave out the cream until you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
