Introduction
When it comes to comforting dishes, a rich and flavorful soup can always warm the heart and soul. This delightful bacon tomato soup combines the smoky essence of bacon with the sweet acidity of San Marzano tomatoes, resulting in a bowl of pure joy. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a satisfying lunch, this soup is sure to please any palate. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious meal.
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 (approximately 1-2 teaspoons)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Yield
4 servings
This recipe for bacon tomato soup is an easy, delectable dish that can be prepared in under an hour. Enjoy your soup warm, and don’t hesitate to elevate it further with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Happy cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Fry 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 Vegetables
Add the chopped carrots, onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
Step 3: Add 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: Combine 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.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Purée the Soup
Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If desired, stir in the cream. Season with kosher salt to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional cream or fresh herbs.
Notes
Note 1: Adjusting Consistency
If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding more chicken broth as needed.
Note 2: Cream Addition
The cream is optional and can be added at the end for extra richness. Adjust the amount according to your preference.
Note 3: Salt Adjustment
Taste the soup before adding all the salt, as the bacon can add a significant amount of saltiness to the dish.
Cook techniques
Frying
In the recipe, frying the bacon at medium-low heat allows the fat to render slowly, which adds flavor to the soup while ensuring the bacon becomes crispy without burning.
Sautéing
The process of sautéing the chopped carrots, onion, and minced garlic helps to soften the vegetables while releasing their natural flavors and aromas, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Caramelizing
Cooking the tomato paste until it begins to brown enhances its flavor, contributing a deeper richness to the soup. This step is essential for bringing out the sweetness and complexity of the tomatoes.
Crushing tomatoes
Crushing the canned San Marzano tomatoes by hand allows for a more rustic texture in the soup, ensuring that the tomato flavor is evenly distributed without becoming overly smooth.
Simmering
Simmering the soup for 30 minutes allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a harmonious flavor profile. This slow cooking process helps the broth develop a rich and satisfying taste.
Pureeing
Using an immersion blender to puree the soup results in a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjusting texture at this stage is important for personal preference and overall presentation.
Seasoning
Seasoning with kosher salt is crucial to highlight the flavors of all the ingredients used in the soup. Adjusting the salt level at the end ensures a balanced taste.
Garnishing
Serving the soup hot with optional cream or fresh herbs adds a finishing touch, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor profile of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat instead of bacon?
Yes, you can use pancetta or even ground sausage for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can omit the bacon and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You may want to add additional vegetables for flavor.
What can I use instead of San Marzano tomatoes?
Any quality canned whole tomatoes can be substituted, though San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and low acidity.
Is it necessary to use cream in the soup?
No, the cream is optional. You can leave it out for a lighter soup or substitute it with a dairy-free cream alternative, if desired.
How do I store the leftover soup?
The leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If the soup is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce it, or add a slurry of flour and water to help thicken it.
Conclusion
This comforting bacon and tomato soup epitomizes a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon adds a savory depth, while the sweet San Marzano tomatoes and aromatic vegetables create a rich base. This dish not only warms the soul but also satisfies with its creamy finish, making it a delightful choice for any meal.
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Combine your tomato base with fresh basil for a herbal twist, garnishing with basil leaves before serving.
Spicy Tomato Soup
Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the soup while simmering for a spicy kick.
Tomato and Lentil Soup
Incorporate cooked lentils for added protein and texture, enhancing both the nutritional value and the heartiness of the soup.
Vegetable Medley Soup
Enhance the vegetable content by adding diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
Chickpea and Tomato Soup
Fold in canned chickpeas to the mixture for a robust soup that boosts protein and fiber.
Cheesy Tomato Soup
Stir in shredded cheese of your choice towards the end to create a creamy and indulgent cheesy tomato soup.
Crouton Topping
Top the soup with homemade or store-bought croutons for added crunch and texture.
Herbed Creamy Tomato Soup
Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or oregano along with the cream to enhance the flavors and provide a fresh aroma.
