Introduction:
On a chilly day or when you crave comfort food, nothing beats a velvety and rich bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. In this blog, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this classic and comforting dish. From selecting the ripest tomatoes to infusing flavors with aromatic herbs, you'll soon be savoring the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and fragrant basil in every spoonful.
Requirements:
Before we begin, let's gather all the necessary ingredients and tools for this delightful tomato basil soup:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools and Utensils:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender or countertop blender
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle
- Soup bowls or mugs
Now that we have everything ready, let's proceed to the step-by-step process.
Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Simmering the Tomatoes
1. Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot, stirring well to combine.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and soften.
Step 3: Blending the Soup
1. Using an immersion blender directly in the pot or transferring the mixture to a countertop blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids to prevent splatters.
2. If using a countertop blender, return the blended soup to the pot.
Step 4: Adding Cream and Seasonings
1. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir well.
2. Gradually add the heavy cream while continuously stirring the soup.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to your preference.
Step 5: Infusing with Basil
1. Stir in the freshly chopped basil leaves, reserving a few for garnish if desired.
2. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
1. Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls or mugs.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
3. Serve the soup hot and enjoy alongside crusty bread or your favorite grilled cheese sandwich.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You have mastered the art of creating a luscious and satisfying bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. From the aromatic sautéing of onions and garlic to the final touch of fresh basil, each step contributes to the perfect blend of flavors and textures. So, grab a spoon, cozy up, and savor the heartwarming delight of this classic soup that is sure to warm both your body and soul. Happy cooking!
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