How to Make French Tomato Basil Soup
French Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting dish that perfectly blends the flavors of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic essence of fresh basil. This classic recipe is simple to prepare and makes for a delightful lunch or dinner option. Below, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this delicious soup along with some tips and tricks to enhance its flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Heavy cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to combine. If you prefer a sweeter soup, add the teaspoon of sugar at this stage.
3. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Blend the Soup:
After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches and blend it until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
5. Add the Basil:
Stir in the fresh basil leaves and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup sit for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the basil flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, drizzle a splash of heavy cream over each serving for added richness. Garnish with extra basil leaves for presentation and serve hot with crusty bread.
Tips for the Perfect French Tomato Basil Soup
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes if you prefer using fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment by adding other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different aromatic profile.
- Texture Preferences: For a chunky texture, reserve some of the diced tomatoes before blending and add them back into the soup.
Making French Tomato Basil Soup is not only easy but also allows for customization based on your taste preferences. Enjoy this delicious, wholesome meal that is perfect for any time of the year!