Hack your pantry: make mouthwatering tomato soup from canned tomatoes with this effortless method

Indulge in the heartwarming comfort of homemade tomato soup, effortlessly crafted with the convenience of canned tomatoes. This comprehensive guide will empower you with a step-by-step recipe and invaluable tips to create a tantalizing soup that will warm your soul and impress your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 2 (14.5 oz) cans of diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the Tomatoes: Pour the undrained diced tomatoes into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up any large chunks. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Season the Soup: Add the chicken or vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer: Continue to simmer the soup over low heat for 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the soup has thickened slightly.

5. Puree the Soup: Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender and puree until smooth. For a chunkier soup, puree only partially.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.

7. Serve Warm: Ladle the tomato soup into bowls and serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as grated Parmesan cheese, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Enhancing Your Soup:

• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes will significantly impact the flavor of your soup. Opt for whole peeled tomatoes or diced tomatoes in a flavorful juice.

• Roast the Tomatoes: For a deeper flavor, roast your tomatoes before adding them to the soup. Spread the tomatoes on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until they begin to caramelize.

• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to customize your soup by adding other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

• Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile. Consider adding thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

• Serve with Toppings: Elevate your soup by offering a variety of toppings, such as grated Parmesan cheese, croutons, or a swirl of pesto.

Variations:

• Creamy Tomato Soup: Add 1 cup of heavy cream or milk to the soup after pureeing for a velvety smooth texture.

• Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup: Add 1 roasted red pepper, peeled and diced, to the soup for a vibrant color and smoky flavor.

• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Key Points:

Creating mouthwatering tomato soup with canned tomatoes is an effortless culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. With this comprehensive recipe and valuable tips, you can now enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade tomato soup whenever the craving strikes.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time as fresh tomatoes contain more water.

2. Can I freeze tomato soup?

Yes, you can freeze tomato soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers and freezing for up to 3 months.

3. How do I thicken tomato soup?

You can thicken tomato soup by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water). Bring the soup to a simmer and slowly whisk in the slurry until the desired consistency is achieved.