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How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup from Scratch

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of tomato soup on a chilly day. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort while being easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking to warm up after a long day or impress guests with a homemade meal, this recipe is sure to please. Here’s how to make it from scratch using fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

For this delightful soup, you will need:

• 1 kg ripe tomatoes (or two 400g tins of quality chopped tomatoes)
• 150g onion (roughly one medium onion)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 400ml vegetable stock (or chicken stock, if preferred)
• 200ml double cream
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• A pinch of sugar (optional)

Equipment

• Large saucepan or stockpot
• Wooden spoon
• Blender or immersion blender
• Chopping board
• Chef’s knife

Method

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   If you are using fresh tomatoes, begin by coreing and chopping them roughly. There’s no need to peel them, as the skins will cook down. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.

2. Sauté the Aromatics
   Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, sautéing until they become translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.

3. Cook the Tomatoes
   Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan and stir well to combine. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. If using tinned tomatoes, simply add them in at this stage along with their juice.

4. Add Stock and Simmer
   Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows all the flavours to meld beautifully.

5. Blend the Soup
   Once the soup has simmered and the tomatoes are tender, remove it from the heat. If your saucepan is large enough, you can blend the soup directly in it using an immersion blender. Otherwise, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.

6. Make it Creamy
   Stir in the double cream and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if desired) to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Heat gently on low for a few minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil.

7. Add Fresh Basil
   Tear the fresh basil leaves into the soup and stir through. Reserve a few for garnish if you wish. The basil not only adds flavour but also a lovely fresh aroma.

8. Serve
   Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls. You can garnish with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, or some additional basil leaves. A slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich on the side makes for the perfect accompaniment.

Final Thoughts

Making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup from scratch is a rewarding experience that provides a delicious meal packed with flavour. The combination of ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and rich cream creates a symphony of taste that comforts the soul. Enjoy this soup as a starter or a main course—you really can’t go wrong.

Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs or spices if you want to switch things up, and consider using seasonal ingredients to keep your soup fresh and vibrant throughout the year. Happy cooking!

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