Incorporate Tomato Paste
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, then add a splash of vegetable stock to help it blend smoothly.
Add Tomatoes
Once combined, add 1 (28-ounce) can of roughly chopped whole tomatoes and 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring well.
Pour in Vegetable Stock
Pour in the remaining 4 cups of vegetable stock, cover the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil, which should take about 3 minutes.
Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
Add Half and Half
After simmering, stir in 1/2 cup of half and half and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
Blend the Soup
Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a regular blender or food processor, carefully transfer the soup in batches to blend.
Serve the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish as desired with fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, or croutons.
Optional Pairing
Serve hot, optionally accompanied by grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing.
Notes
Vegetable Stock
Use homemade or store-bought vegetable stock; it can greatly affect the flavor of the soup.
Tomatoes
Adjust the type of canned tomatoes based on your preference for texture; crushed tomatoes can also be used if desired.
Blending Options
An immersion blender is ideal for easy blending directly in the pot; however, if using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.
Garnishing
Personalize your garnishes with items like croutons or cheese to add different flavor profiles or textures to the dish.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is used in this recipe to cook the onions and garlic until they are translucent and soft. This technique allows the flavors to develop and enhances the taste of the soup.
Tomato Cooking
Adding tomato paste and whole tomatoes in the recipe requires cooking at high heat initially to unlock the acidity and sweetness of the tomatoes. This enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.
Simmering
Simmering the soup helps meld the flavors together after boiling. This gentle cooking technique allows the ingredients to infuse and develop a rich taste without overcooking them.
Blending
Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup to a regular blender achieves a smooth consistency. Blending allows the flavors to combine thoroughly and gives the soup a creamy texture.
Garnishing
Garnishing the soup with fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, or croutons adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal to the dish. It enhances the overall presentation and enjoyment of the soup.
FAQ
Can I substitute the half and half?
Yes, you can substitute half and half with heavy cream for a richer texture or use milk for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative.
Is it possible to freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I use if I don’t have vegetable stock?
If you don’t have vegetable stock, you can substitute it with water or use chicken stock for added flavor, keeping in mind it will no longer be vegetarian.
Can I add protein to the soup?
Absolutely! You can add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or shredded chicken to make the soup more filling.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To increase spice, add more red pepper flakes or incorporate fresh chopped chili peppers while sautéing the onions and garlic. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato soup is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory flavors of onion and garlic. The addition of half and half gives it a rich and creamy texture, perfect for dipping with your favorite sides. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to warm your heart.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
A classic pairing, grilled cheese sandwiches complement the creamy tomato soup perfectly. Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a delightful flavor combination.
Croutons with Herbs
Enhance the texture of your soup by adding homemade croutons seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, giving a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup base.
Caprese Salad
Serve a fresh Caprese salad on the side, made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction to elevate your meal.
Pesto Drizzle
Add a swirl of basil pesto on top of the soup before serving for an herby and flavorful boost that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Consider a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Their natural sweetness complements the flavors of the soup.
Stuffed Bread Bowls
Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, filled with the creamy goodness that will also allow you to enjoy the bread as part of the meal.
Spicy Sausage
For a heartier option, add crumbled spicy Italian sausage to the soup during cooking. It adds depth and a delightful kick to the dish.
