Image Source from AMJMDesign

A Creamy Delight: Instant Pot Tomato Soup

As the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and cheer. Among the myriad of soup options available, tomato soup reigns as a timeless classic that resonates with people of all ages. With the advent of modern kitchen appliances, preparing a sumptuous Instant Pot Tomato Soup has never been easier or quicker. In this article, we’ll explore how to create this delightful dish, perfect for any occasion.

The Magic of the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot has revolutionised home cooking, combining several appliances into one. It functions as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and even a sauté pan, which significantly reduces cooking time without sacrificing flavour. With its ability to lock in moisture and infuse ingredients, the Instant Pot is particularly well-suited for soups, allowing you to enjoy a rich and comforting tomato soup in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating a delicious Instant Pot Tomato Soup is both simple and rewarding. Here’s a quick list of ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 can (400g) of chopped tomatoes (or 800g fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 500ml vegetable or chicken stock
• 2 tsp sugar (to balance the acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A handful of fresh basil leaves (optional)
• 100ml double cream (optional, for a creamy texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion is translucent. This initial step builds a great foundation of flavour. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Add Tomatoes and Stock

Once the vegetables are softened, it’s time to add the tomatoes (canned or fresh), vegetable or chicken stock, and sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to prevent the ‘burn’ warning during pressure cooking.

Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to ‘Sealing’. Switch the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ mode and set the timer for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining steam.

Blend the Soup

Once the pressure has fully released and it’s safe to open the lid, you have the option to blend your soup for a smooth consistency. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired texture. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, taking care to allow steam to escape.

Final Touches

For a creamier soup, stir in the double cream after blending. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh basil to enhance the dish further. Serve hot, garnished with a few more basil leaves or a swirl of cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Suggestions

This Instant Pot Tomato Soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner. For a bit of a twist, consider adding croutons, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or even a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.

Conclusion

Making a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Tomato Soup is a quick and straightforward endeavour that promises warmth on even the coldest days. Its rich flavours and creamy texture are sure to please, and with minimal effort, you can whip up a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. So why not gather your ingredients and let your Instant Pot do the magic? Enjoy this classic soup and savour every spoonful!