How to Prepare Tomato Soup: A Hearty and Simple Recipe
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that is both easy to prepare and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or serve a comforting meal to friends and family, this flavorful soup is sure to delight. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to prepare tomato soup, ensuring that you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
Before diving into the steps, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create your own batch of tomato soup:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 cup heavy cream or milk for added richness
Instructions:
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the steps on how to prepare tomato soup:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat the mixture evenly. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the flavors.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano to the pot. Stir well and let the soup simmer for another 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a richer soup, you can add 1 cup of heavy cream or milk and stir until well combined.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve the tomato soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a swirl of cream on top. Enjoy your homemade tomato soup as a standalone meal or as a side dish for a variety of sandwiches and salads.
By following these simple steps, you can now enjoy a delicious and comforting bowl of tomato soup. Remember, the key to a great tomato soup lies in the balance of flavors, so feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
