Introduction
Comforting and delicious, this creamy tomato soup is perfect for chilly days. Whether you’re wrapping up after a long day or seeking a cozy meal, this easy recipe combines the rich flavors of tomatoes with creamy half-and-half, making it a delightful option for dinner. Pair it with crunchy crackers or a warm grilled cheese for a satisfying experience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup canned tomato sauce
1 cup canned diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup half and half
1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan
2 teaspoons crushed garlic
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 small onion, diced
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy your hearty tomato soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced onion and sauté until the onions are softened and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Once the onions are cooked, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to cook slightly and begin to brown, creating a roux for the soup base.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Stir in 1 cup of canned tomato sauce, 1 cup of canned diced tomatoes, and 4 cups of chicken broth. Add in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat and let it cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
After simmering, use an immersion blender to carefully puree the mixture in the pot. Blend until the soup reaches your desired level of smoothness, ensuring that the onion and tomatoes are well integrated.
Step 5: Finish with Half and Half
Turn off the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of half and half. Mix well until fully incorporated for a creamy texture.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with accompaniments like crackers, croutons, or grilled cheese for a comforting, hearty meal during cold weather.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
Storage Guidelines
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat before serving.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor. You can also add cooked chicken or sausage for a more protein-rich soup.
Dietary Considerations
For a vegan version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the half and half and cheese, or use dairy-free alternatives.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of fat over high heat. In this recipe, onions are sautéed in butter until softened and golden brown, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature. In this recipe, after adding the tomato products and seasonings, the mixture is simmered on low heat for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together without boiling, which can lead to undesirable texture changes.
Blending
An immersion blender is used to puree the soup, ensuring a smooth texture. This technique helps to combine the ingredients uniformly, creating a cohesive soup base.
Incorporating Dairy
In this recipe, half and half is stirred in at the end to add creaminess. It’s important to turn off the heat before adding dairy to prevent curdling.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, but you’ll need to blanch and peel them first. About 2-3 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes would be equivalent.
What can I substitute for half and half?
You can substitute half and half with a mixture of heavy cream and milk or use milk alone for a lighter version, but the creaminess may be reduced.
How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
Consider adding herbs such as thyme or oregano, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
What are some serving suggestions?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, croutons, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a filling meal.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato soup recipe is not only simple to prepare but also rich in flavor, making it a comforting dish for any occasion. The combination of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Parmesan creates a delicious harmony, while the addition of half and half adds a silky texture. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Herbed Chicken Pasta
Combine cooked pasta with sautéed chicken breast, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a light, flavorful dish.
Vegetable Risotto
Use the chicken broth as a base for a creamy risotto, adding seasonal vegetables like asparagus or peas for a hearty meal.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Top toasted baguette slices with a mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a fresh appetizer.
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Spread butter mixed with crushed garlic and grated Parmesan on French bread, then broil until golden and bubbly.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mixture of cooked rice, spices, and ground meat, and bake with a tomato sauce topping for a wholesome dish.
