How to Make a Comforting Tomato Basil Soup for Lunch
When the cool breeze starts to blow, or when you’re just craving something comforting and warm, a bowl of tomato basil soup can be like a hug for your soul. It’s a simple, classic dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, making this delicious soup for lunch can be a fun way to add some homemade goodness to your day. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this comforting meal with ease.
Ingredients:
To make tomato basil soup, you won’t need a long list of fancy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) of diced tomatoes, don’t drain them
- 2 cups of vegetable broth (chicken broth works too if you’re not vegetarian)
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped (save some for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, but it helps balance the acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a vegan option
Tools You’ll Need:
- A large pot
- A handheld immersion blender or a regular blender
- A cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Let’s Get Cooking:
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Start with the Base: Grab your large pot and put it over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add your chopped onions. Cook them until they’re soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.
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Add Flavor: Throw in the minced garlic to the pot and cook with the onions for another minute or so. You’ll notice a fantastic aroma filling your kitchen – that’s when you know it’s time to move on to the next step.
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Tomatoes Time: Now, add your diced tomatoes to the pot, juice and all. The juice from the tomatoes adds a nice depth to your soup, so you don’t want to miss out on it. Then, pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth. Stir everything well to combine.
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Season and Simmer: It’s time to add the fresh basil, sugar (if you’re using it), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good mix, then let your soup simmer. Lower the heat, put a lid on your pot, and leave it to do its magic for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Blend It Up: After the soup has had time to simmer and all the flavors are well acquainted, it’s time to make it smooth. If you’re using an immersion blender, you can blend the soup directly in the pot. If you’re using a regular blender, carefully ladle the soup into the blender and blend until smooth. Always be careful when blending hot liquids!
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The Creamy Finish: Return the blended soup to the pot if you’ve had to remove it. Stir in the cream or coconut milk for that beautiful creamy texture and an extra layer of flavor. Heat through, but don’t let it boil after adding the cream.
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Taste and Adjust: Give your soup a taste. This is your moment to adjust the seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Sometimes, the acidity of the tomatoes can vary, so if the soup is too tangy for your liking, a little more sugar can help balance it out.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your comforting tomato basil soup is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls, and if you like, add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a pretty garnish. This soup pairs wonderfully with a chunk of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for dipping.
Conclusion:
Making tomato basil soup for lunch is a simple way to bring a little comfort into your day. With basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a warming, flavorful soup that feels like a cozy embrace. It’s perfect for chilly days, or any time you need a meal that soothes both the body and soul. So, the next time you’re wondering what to make for lunch, remember this tomato basil soup recipe and treat yourself to some homemade comfort.
