Introduction
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that is both delicious and nutritious. Making tomato soup from scratch using tomato sauce is a quick and easy way to enjoy a homemade version of this flavorful dish. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make tomato soup using tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream (optional)
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish
- Croutons for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the onion: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes: Pour in the can of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Blend: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
- Adjust consistency: If the soup is too thick, you can add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add cream: If using heavy cream, stir it into the soup to add richness and creaminess.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh basil, and serve with croutons on the side.
Tips for Making Tomato Soup
- Use high-quality tomato sauce: The key to a delicious tomato soup is using good quality tomato sauce. Look for a brand that uses ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Customize your soup: Feel free to add in other ingredients like carrots, celery, or red bell peppers for added depth of flavor.
- Make it vegan: To make this soup vegan, omit the heavy cream and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead.
- Freeze leftovers: This tomato soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for later.
- Serve with toppings: Besides croutons, you can top your tomato soup with grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of sour cream.
Health Benefits of Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here are some reasons why you should include tomato soup in your diet:
- Rich in antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Low in calories: Tomato soup is a low-calorie option that can help you feel full without consuming excess calories.
- Improves heart health: The lycopene in tomatoes has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.
- Boosts immunity: Tomatoes are high in vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and ward off illnesses.
- Good for digestion: The fiber in tomatoes can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut.
Conclusion
Making tomato soup with tomato sauce is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup. By following this easy recipe and adding your own twist, you can create a delicious meal that is both nutritious and delicious. Experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make this soup your own!
