How To Make Tomato Soup

Don't like soups?

It's likely you haven't tried a tomato soup like this one. Forget about those bland and boring soups you've had before, because this homemade recipe will change your mind. With fresh ingredients and a special touch, you'll get a creamy soup, full of flavor, and with the perfect texture.

Whether you're looking for a quick option for a light meal or want to impress your guests with something different, this tomato soup is the solution. I guarantee that after trying it, not only will you like soups, you'll love them! Let me know if you need further adjustments!

What types of tomatoes are ideal for making tomato soup?

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your tomato soup, choosing the right type of tomato is key. Here are some recommended options:

Roma tomatoes: Sweet, with low water content and few seeds, ideal for soups due to their balance of sweetness and acidity.
Vine tomatoes: Perfect if you're looking for a more intense and fresh flavor.
Globe tomatoes: A good option if you don't have access to other varieties, although not the best choice as the main ingredient.
Raf tomatoes: While very tasty, their sweetness may not be suitable for a classic soup.

Remember, the most important thing is that the tomatoes are fully ripe to get the best flavor. Choose the ones you like best and experiment until you find your perfect combination!

Is it better to peel the tomatoes before making soup? Pros and cons

Before you start preparing your tomato soup, a common question is whether you should peel the tomatoes or not. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:

Pros of peeling the tomatoes:

You get a smoother texture without pieces of skin in the soup.
The skins can become bitter when cooked, affecting the flavor.
It makes the blending process easier if you're using a blender.

Cons of peeling the tomatoes:

You lose some of the nutrients found in the skin, like antioxidants.
The skins provide fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
It's an extra step that may be unnecessary if you're using a powerful blender.

If you prefer a smooth soup without extra textures, it's better to peel the tomatoes. However, if you're looking for a more nutritious option and don't mind a rustic texture, you can leave them unpeeled.

Ingredients needed to make tomato soup

To prepare a delicious homemade tomato soup, you'll need some basic ingredients that are easy to find. Here's the list:

Fresh tomatoes (500g - 1kg): The base of the soup, preferably ripe for the best flavor.
Onion (1 medium): Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves): Enhances the tomato's flavor.
Red or green bell pepper (optional): Adds an extra layer of flavor and color to the soup.
Vegetable or chicken broth (2-3 cups): To give the soup body and flavor.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the ingredients and adding a touch of flavor.
Sugar (a pinch): Helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.
Salt and pepper: To season to taste.

With these ingredients, you'll have everything you need to make a rich and comforting homemade tomato soup. Let's get cooking!

How to make homemade tomato soup from scratch

Making homemade tomato soup is easier than it seems. Here are the detailed steps to help you create a delicious soup:

Prepare the tomatoes : If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the tomatoes. To do this, make a cross-cut on them and blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer them to cold water to easily remove the skin. If you don't mind a more rustic texture, you can leave the skin on.
Chop the ingredients : Finely chop 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, and 1 bell pepper (red or green). These ingredients will add flavor and depth to the soup.
Sauté the vegetables : In a large pot, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper over medium heat until they are golden and soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the tomatoes and basil : Chop the tomatoes (500g - 1kg) into small cubes and add them to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add a handful of fresh basil for an aromatic touch. Cook everything together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Incorporate the broth : Add 2-3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, depending on your preference. Let the mixture simmer for about 20-30 minutes so that the flavors meld well.
Blend the soup : Once everything is well-cooked, remove from heat and blend the soup with an immersion blender until you reach your desired texture. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth.
Adjust the flavor : Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. If it's too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
Serve and garnish : Serve the soup hot and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a final fresh and aromatic touch.

Remember that whether or not to peel the tomatoes is entirely up to your personal preference. Now all that's left is to enjoy your delicious homemade soup!

How to adjust the acidity in tomato soup

Tomatoes are naturally acidic, which can make your soup taste too strong or astringent. Fortunately, there are several simple methods to balance the acidity without compromising the soup's flavor. Here are some options:

Add a pinch of sugar: The most common method is to add a small amount of sugar (about 1/2 teaspoon) to counteract the acidity without making the soup too sweet.
Baking soda: Add a pinch (1/4 teaspoon per liter of soup) to neutralize the tomato acids. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes; you'll notice it bubbling, which indicates it's working.
Grated carrots or apples: These ingredients provide natural sweetness without adding refined sugar, helping to balance the acidity.
Dairy like cream or yogurt: Adding a bit of cream or yogurt softens the acidity and gives the soup a creamy texture.

Try these tricks and adjust according to your preference until you achieve the perfect balance in your tomato soup.

How to thicken soup without altering the flavor

If your tomato soup turned out too watery, don’t worry. There are several ways to thicken it without changing its flavor. Here are some effective options:

Simmer on low heat: Cook the soup over low heat without a lid, allowing the excess liquid to naturally evaporate. This will also concentrate the flavors.
Add vegetable puree: You can add pureed potatoes, carrots, or squash. These ingredients thicken the soup without altering its taste.
Cornstarch or flour: Dissolve a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour in a bit of cold water and add it to the soup while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Bread or croutons: Adding a piece of toasted bread or croutons just before blending the soup will give it a thicker and creamier texture.

Try any of these methods based on your preferences and adjust the consistency until you achieve the ideal texture for your tomato soup.

What are the best accompaniments for tomato soup?

Tomato soup is a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with a wide variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your experience:

Grilled cheese sandwich: The classic favorite, with melted and crispy cheese, is the perfect complement to tomato soup.
Garlic toast: A piece of crispy bread brushed with garlic and olive oil adds texture and flavor.
Mozzarella sticks: Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, they are ideal for dipping into the soup.
Fresh salad: A light salad, such as avocado or spinach salad, balances the warmth of the soup.
Saltine crackers or croutons: Add a crunchy and salty touch that complements the smoothness of the soup.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle some on top of the soup to add a salty and creamy touch.
Crispy bacon strips: Add a delicious contrast between the crispy bacon and the smooth soup.
Pita bread or focaccia: Perfect for dipping into the soup and enjoying every drop.

These accompaniments not only enhance the flavor but also turn your soup into a more complete meal. Choose your favorite and enjoy!

How long can homemade tomato soup be stored in the refrigerator?

Homemade tomato soup, since it doesn't contain artificial preservatives, needs to be stored properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here's how long you can safely keep it:

In the refrigerator: Homemade tomato soup can stay fresh for 3 to 4 days if stored in an airtight container. It's important to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating it to avoid condensation, which could affect its quality.
In the freezer: If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it. In this case, the soup can last up to 3 months in good condition. To freeze it properly, divide the soup into individual or small portions, which makes thawing easier and prevents waste.
Proper reheating: When you're ready to consume the soup after refrigerating or freezing it, make sure to reheat it thoroughly over medium heat until it's completely hot. If you're thawing frozen soup, it's best to leave it in the refrigerator overnight.

Always check the soup before consuming it. If you notice any changes in color, a sour smell, or mold, it's best to discard it to avoid any food safety risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

A: Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if you don't have fresh ones on hand. Canned tomatoes, especially those in their juice or crushed, are an excellent alternative and can save time. Just make sure to choose a good quality brand for the best flavor.

Q: How can I make my tomato soup creamier?

A: To achieve a creamier texture, you can add heavy cream, coconut milk, or even Greek yogurt. You can also blend the soup thoroughly with a blender to get a smooth and homogeneous consistency.

Q: How can I reduce the acidity of tomato soup?

A: If your soup is too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Another option is to add a bit of grated carrot or cream, which will soften the acidity without altering the flavor too much.

Q: What kind of broth is best for tomato soup?

A: You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth, depending on your preferences. Vegetable broth is ideal for keeping the recipe vegetarian or vegan, while chicken broth gives it a more robust and deep flavor. Let me know if you need any further adjustments!