Quick and easy tomato soup for cozy evenings: step-by-step guide

Tomato soup, a beloved culinary classic, is a perfect comfort food that warms the soul on chilly days. But who has time to spend hours in the kitchen? With this guide, you’ll discover how to make tomato soup at home quickly, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish in a matter of minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Pour the diced tomatoes into the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

3. Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, work in batches to avoid overfilling.

4. Add the Cream (Optional)

For a richer flavor, stir in the heavy cream. This step is optional, but it adds a velvety texture to the soup.

5. Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper to taste. The amount will vary depending on your personal preference and the saltiness of the broth.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the tomato soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with toasted bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Soup Even Quicker

• Use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for a quick and easy shortcut.
• Chop the onion and garlic ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to cook.
• If you don’t have an immersion blender, use a regular blender and work in small batches.
• For a thicker soup, simmer for longer. For a thinner soup, add more broth.

Variations on the Classic

• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup for a richer flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the soup for a kick.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Add a handful of fresh basil leaves to the soup before blending.
• Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: Top the soup with grilled cheese croutons for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Recommendations

Making tomato soup at home quickly is a culinary skill that will impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of this beloved dish. So next time you’re craving tomato soup, don’t reach for a can. Instead, follow these steps and create a culinary masterpiece in minutes.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can. However, you will need to remove the skins and seeds before adding them to the soup.

Q: How do I store leftover tomato soup?
A: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze tomato soup?
A: Yes, you can. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.