Homemade Tomato Soup (Fresh Tomatoes)

Ah, homemade tomato soup. A classic comfort food, elevated to pure bliss with a few simple tricks. This isn't just a soup; it's a symphony of flavors, a velvety dream that'll have you licking your bowl clean.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Nothing beats the taste of freshly made tomato soup. Skip the canned stuff and embrace the pure, vibrant flavors of ripe, juicy tomatoes. This recipe is a breeze to make, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated soirée.

Tomato Selection: A Flavorful Affair

The key to a truly exceptional tomato soup lies in the quality of your tomatoes. While any ripe tomato will do, I prefer heirloom varieties for their rich, complex flavors. If you're short on time or fresh tomatoes aren't in season, canned crushed tomatoes can be a great substitute. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid a watery soup.

Roasting for Maximum Flavor

Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor. I like to add a splash of red bell pepper to the roasting pan for a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color. You could also use carrots, but I prefer the sweetness of the pepper.

Tomato to Pound Ratio: A Rough Guide

The weight of tomatoes can vary depending on the variety, but here's a general estimate:

• 1 lb of tomatoes ≈ 4-5 medium tomatoes

Remember, this is just a ballpark figure. The beauty of cooking is flexibility, so don't stress too much about exact measurements.

Let's get cooking!

1 lb of tomatoes is approximately (remember you need 3lbs for this recipe):

2 large tomatoes

• 3 medium tomatoes
• 4 Roma tomatoes
• 2 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes
• 20 cherry tomatoes

How to Make Tomato Soup

1. Place tomatoes and peppers on a pan with olive oil and seasonings. Roast until you see a bit of char.
2. Bring broth to a boil and add roasted tomatoes.
3. Blend using a hand blender until smooth & creamy.
4. Top with parmesan cheese or a drizzle of heavy cream if you prefer.

Taming Tart Tomatoes: A Chef's Tips

If your tomato soup is a bit too puckery, fear not! There are a few simple tricks to balance the acidity and elevate the flavor.

Creamy Smoothness:

• A Dollop of Cream: While not strictly necessary, a splash of heavy cream can soften the sharp edges of a tart tomato soup.
• Coconut Milk Magic: For a dairy-free option, a drizzle of unsweetened coconut milk can add a creamy richness without overpowering the tomato flavor.

Sweet Balance:

• A Pinch of Sugar: A tiny amount of sugar can work wonders in neutralizing acidity.
• Carrot Infusion: Roasting a carrot alongside the tomatoes adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of earthy flavor.

Rich Indulgence:

• Buttery Goodness: A pat of butter can add a luxurious mouthfeel and a hint of savory richness.

The Perfect Pairings:

• Classic Comfort: A grilled cheese sandwich is the quintessential companion to tomato soup.
• Crunchy Crunch: Croutons sprinkled with Parmesan cheese add a satisfying textural contrast.

So, the next time your tomato soup turns out a little too tart, remember these tips and transform it into a delicious, comforting bowl of goodness.

Recipe

 3 pounds ripe tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic peeled
- ½ onion diced
- ½ red bell pepper diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, oregano
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese optional garnish
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream optional
- thinly sliced fresh basil leaves for serving, optional

Instructions 

Preheat oven to 450°F. Chop your tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them onto a baking sheet with garlic, onion, bell pepper, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite dried herbs. Roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Then, broil for a few minutes to add a touch of smoky char.

Bring your chicken broth to a boil. Add the roasted goodness and fresh herbs. Blend with a hand blender until smooth. If your tomatoes are on the tart side, a splash of heavy cream can add a touch of richness. Taste the soup after blending and decide if it needs a little cream.

Pour the soup into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese and croutons.

*** © ourhomely.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.