Introduction
Warm and comforting, homemade tomato soup is a dish that not only nourishes but also delights the palate. This recipe combines crispy bacon with fresh vegetables and rich tomato flavor to create a deliciously hearty soup. Perfect for a chilly day or as a comforting meal any time of year, this tomato soup is sure to please both family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
2 carrots, chopped
Half of a yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon flour
4 cups chicken broth (more to thin out the soup at the end as needed)
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
One 28-ounce can whole San Marzano tomatoes
2 tablespoons cream (optional – to add at the end as desired)
Kosher salt to taste (1-2 teaspoons recommended)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 4-6
Indulge in the rich flavors of this homemade tomato soup that combines simple ingredients into a delightful dish. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large soup pot over medium-low heat, fry the bacon pieces until they start to get crispy and browned, about 5-8 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped carrots, onion, and minced garlic to the pot; sauté for 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are aromatic and tender.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Flour
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a few minutes until it begins to brown and caramelize. Add the flour and stir for about a minute.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour the canned tomatoes and their juice into a bowl and crush them by hand. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Puree the Soup
Remove the bay leaf. Puree the soup in batches using a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot until smooth.
Step 6: Finish the Soup
If desired, stir in the cream. Season with kosher salt to taste.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding extra broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Frying
Frying is a cooking method that uses oil or fat at high temperatures to cook food quickly. In this recipe, frying the bacon renders its fat and adds flavor to the pan.
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium-high heat. It helps develop the flavors of the vegetables by softening them and enhancing their natural sweetness.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the technique of adding liquid to a hot pan to loosen and dissolve the browned bits left from sautéed items. This adds depth and richness to the soup’s flavor.
Crushing Tomatoes
Crushing tomatoes by hand helps create a more rustic texture and allows the juices to blend better with other ingredients, enriching the soup’s flavor.
Simmering
Simmering is a cooking technique where food is cooked in a liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This allows for flavors to meld while keeping the ingredients tender.
Puréing
Puréing transforms solid foods into a smooth consistency. Using a blender or immersion blender in this recipe gives the soup a creamy texture.
Seasoning
Seasoning at the end of cooking is crucial to ensure proper flavor balance. Adding salt to taste enhances all the flavors in the dish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of bacon?
Yes, you can use pancetta or turkey bacon as substitutes if you prefer different flavors or dietary options.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or water in place of chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your taste for an extra kick.
Can I store the leftover soup?
Yes, store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.
What can I serve with this soup?
This tomato soup pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a light salad.
Conclusion
This delicious tomato soup, enriched with the smoky flavor of bacon and the freshness of vegetables, makes for a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. It’s simple to prepare and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Adding cream at the end gives it a luscious finish, making it perfect for pairing with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Pair your tomato soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and nostalgic meal. Simply grill your favorite cheese between two slices of buttered bread until golden and melty.
Basil and Parmesan Topping
Enhance the flavor of your tomato soup by topping it with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a burst of freshness and a savory finish to each bowl.
Roasted Vegetables
Serve roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant on the side. Their caramelized sweetness complements the soup beautifully.
Quinoa or Rice
For added heartiness, serve your tomato soup with a scoop of cooked quinoa or rice. This can transform your soup into a satisfying meal.
Croutons
Top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons for added crunch. You can also sprinkle them with herbs or garlic for extra flavor.
Herbed Olive Oil Drizzle
Drizzle some herbed olive oil over your soup just before serving for a touch of elegance. It adds a rich flavor that complements the tomato base.
Avocado Slices
Add slices of avocado on top of your soup for creaminess and a boost of nutrients. It provides a delightful contrast to the tangy tomatoes.
Spicy Variations
Incorporate some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat in your soup. This adds depth and a kick to the flavor profile.
