Introduction
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food loved by many for its simplicity and rich flavor. Jamie Oliver’s tasty tomato soup recipe brings together the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with aromatic ingredients to create a dish that is both comforting and nourishing. This vibrant soup is perfect for chilly evenings or as a hearty starter for any meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ripe Tomatoes – 1 kg
Onion – 1 large, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Carrots – 2, diced
Celery – 2 stalks, diced
Basil – a handful of fresh leaves
Vegetable Stock – 1 liter
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Black Pepper – to taste
Sugar – a pinch (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 30 minutes
Total Time – 40 minutes
Yield – Serves 4-6 people
This delicious tomato soup recipe is straightforward to prepare, promising a delightful balance of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. Enjoy it with crusty bread or as a base for other dishes!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing your tomatoes thoroughly and removing the stalks. Chop them into quarters. If using canned tomatoes, simply measure out the required amount.
Step 2: Cook the Onion and Carrot
Peel and chop the onion and carrot. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrot, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Minimize the heat slightly and add some minced garlic to the pot. Stir for 1 minute, then add your chopped fresh or canned tomatoes.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Stir the mixture well and season it with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are too acidic.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Pour in enough water or vegetable stock to cover the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
Step 6: Blend the Soup
Once the vegetables are soft, remove the pot from heat and use a hand blender to puree the soup until smooth. Make sure to blend it thoroughly for the best texture.
Step 7: Adjust Consistency
If the soup is too thick, you can add more water or stock until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serving
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Tip for Extra Flavor
Consider adding fresh herbs such as basil or thyme during the cooking process for an enhanced flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for future use.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Vegan Option
This soup is naturally vegan, but always check the stock and any additional ingredients for suitability.
Cook techniques
Chopping tomatoes
Properly chop your tomatoes to ensure even cooking. Cut them into uniform sizes for a consistent texture in your soup.
Sautéing aromatics
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil. This technique enhances the flavor base of the soup, making it rich and aromatic.
Simmering
Let your soup simmer for the recommended time. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Blending
Use a blender or immersion blender to achieve a smooth texture. Blend the soup until desired creaminess is reached.
Seasoning
Taste your soup and adjust seasonings as necessary. Adding salt, pepper, or herbs can elevate the flavors significantly.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used as a convenient alternative, providing a rich flavor.
How can I make the soup creamier?
Consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of yogurt before serving for added creaminess.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, tomato soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled and stored in an airtight container.
What herbs pair well with tomato soup?
Basil, thyme, and oregano are excellent choices that complement the flavors of tomato soup.
Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes?
Peeling is optional; leaving the skins on adds flavor and nutrients. If preferred, you can peel them for a smoother texture.
Conclusion
This tasty tomato soup is a delightful dish that showcases the natural sweetness and richness of tomatoes. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments. Perfect for a cozy meal or as a starter, this soup is sure to please both family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Crispy Garlic Bread
Serve your tomato soup with crispy garlic bread for a satisfying and crunchy texture that complements the smoothness of the soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Pair the soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and nostalgic combination that is loved by many.
Fresh Basil Pesto
Add a dollop of fresh basil pesto on top of the soup for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make a nutritious and colorful side dish that goes well with the rich flavor of the tomato soup.
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad with fresh veggies can be a refreshing complement to the hearty tomato soup, making for a balanced meal.
Cheesy Croutons
Top your soup with cheesy croutons for an added crunch and gooey texture that elevates the dish to a new level.
Spicy Avocado Toast
Serve spicy avocado toast on the side for a trendy and rich pairing that adds creaminess to each spoonful of soup.