Introduction
Creamy tomato bean soup is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for chilly days or simply when you need a hearty meal. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of tomatoes and beans, resulting in a creamy texture that feels indulgent yet is remarkably easy to make. With a medley of herbs and spices, it is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a staple in many households.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Onion: 1 medium, diced
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Carrot: 1, diced
– Celery: 1 stalk, diced
– Canned crushed tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces)
– Vegetable broth: 4 cups
– Canned cannellini beans: 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– Fresh basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
– Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
– Salt and pepper: to taste
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes is recommended for prep time. This includes chopping vegetables and gathering all the ingredients needed to whip up this delicious soup.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the soup is about 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time from start to finish is around 45 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a small family or for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop one onion, three cloves of garlic, and one carrot. Set them aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Onion and Carrot
In a large pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrot to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the onion is translucent and the carrot is softened.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and one teaspoon of dried oregano. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans
Add one can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and one can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Add Broth
Pour in four cups of vegetable broth or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Step 6: Simmer the Soup
Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help develop the flavors and soften the beans further.
Step 7: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, or transfer it to a blender in batches. Be cautious with hot liquids.
Step 8: Stir in Cream
Once blended, return the soup to the pot (if using a standard blender) and stir in one cup of heavy cream. Heat gently over low heat until warmed through.
Step 9: Season to Taste
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Step 10: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Variations
You can add other vegetables, such as spinach or kale, for additional nutrition and flavor.
Note 2: Storage
Store any leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Note 3: Freezing
The soup can also be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Note 4: Dairy-Free Option
Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer for a lighter version of the soup.
Note 5: Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Using Canned Tomatoes
To achieve a rich and flavorful base, canned tomatoes are a great option. They are often picked and processed at peak ripeness, ensuring maximum flavor.
Sautéing Aromatics
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to create a savory foundation for the soup. This technique enhances their flavors, adding depth to the dish.
Blending for Creaminess
After cooking, blending the soup creates a smooth and creamy texture. This can be done with an immersion blender or by transferring to a countertop blender.
Incorporating Beans
Adding beans not only boosts the soup’s protein content but also contributes a hearty texture. They can be stirred in after blending or gently mashed for a thicker consistency.
Adjusting Consistency
If the soup is too thick, adding a bit of vegetable or chicken stock can help achieve the desired consistency. Adjust based on personal preference for thickness.
Finishing with Cream
For an extra touch of richness, finish the soup with a swirl of cream or a splash of milk just before serving. This enhances both flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but they may require longer cooking time and possibly additional seasoning to achieve a similar flavor profile.
What types of beans work best in this soup?
Cannellini beans or chickpeas are excellent for this recipe, providing a creamy texture and complementing the tomato base well.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Omit the cream or use a dairy-free alternative to make the soup vegan-friendly.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months.
Conclusion
The Creamy Tomato Bean Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your palate. Its creamy consistency, deliciously rich tomato flavor, and the added protein from beans make it a perfect meal for any occasion. Easy to prepare, this soup not only offers comfort but also a healthy dose of nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Pair your creamy tomato bean soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combination that never fails to please.
Homemade Croutons
Add some crunch to your soup with homemade croutons, made from leftover bread, seasoned, and toasted until golden.
Spinach Salad
Serve a fresh spinach salad on the side, dressed with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the soup.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread makes an excellent side dish, ready to be dunked into the creamy soup for an extra layer of flavor.
Avocado Toast
Top some crunchy toast with avocado for a healthy and satisfying accompaniment that pairs perfectly with your bowl of soup.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
For a heartier meal, stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, ground meat, and spices can work beautifully alongside your soup.
Caprese Salad
A refreshing Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes offers a vibrant contrast to the soup’s flavors.
Quiche
Enjoy a slice of quiche with your soup for a delicious and filling brunch option that complements the soup well.