🍅 Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

📋 Recipe Details

• ⏱️ Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• 🍳 Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• 🍽️ Total Time: 35 minutes
• 🔥 Difficulty Level: 2/5
• ⚡ Calories per serving: ~160 kcal (per bowl, no cream)

🛒 Ingredients

🥣 For 4 servings:

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) whole peeled tomatoes (or 900 g fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
• 1 ½ cups (375 ml) vegetable broth or water
• 1 tsp (5 g) sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ tsp (1.5 g) dried basil or thyme (optional)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream or milk (optional, for creamier texture)
• Fresh basil leaves or croutons, for garnish

👨‍🍳 How to Make Easy Tomato Soup

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
   Pour in canned tomatoes (with juice) and vegetable broth. Break the tomatoes with a spoon if using whole ones. Stir in sugar and herbs, if using.
3. Simmer:
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
4. Blend Until Smooth:
   Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Finish the Soup:
   Return to heat and stir in cream or milk if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil.

💡 Pro Tips for the Best Tomato Soup

• For richer flavor, roast fresh tomatoes before blending.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little kick.
• Make it creamy by adding coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
• Always taste and adjust salt at the end — some canned tomatoes are saltier than others.
• Use homemade vegetable stock if available for more depth.
• After soup you can make our delicious Polish Pierogi.

🍽️ Best Ways to Use Tomato Soup

• Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich – classic combo!
• Serve with toasted garlic bread or cheesy croutons on top.
• Use it as a starter for a pasta or roast dinner.
• Freeze it in portions for a quick meal anytime – it keeps well for 2–3 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Blanch and peel ~900 g of ripe tomatoes and use them in place of canned. You might need to simmer longer to reduce excess water.

How do I make it vegan?
Use olive oil and skip cream or substitute it with coconut milk or oat cream.

Can I freeze tomato soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove.

Is tomato soup healthy?
Yes! It’s low in calories and rich in vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, especially when made without cream.