How to Make French Roasted Tomato Soup with Herbs
French Roasted Tomato Soup with Herbs is a delightful dish that captures the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, enhanced by the aromatic profile of fresh herbs. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a hearty appetizer. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting soup that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this French Roasted Tomato Soup with Herbs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes (about 2 lbs), quartered
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the quartered tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and half of the dried herbs.
2. Roast the Tomatoes
Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized. This roasting process will enhance their natural sweetness and give the soup a robust flavor.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
While the tomatoes are roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and the rest of the herbs, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients
Once the tomatoes are done roasting, add them to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and stir to combine. If you like a tangy flavor, add the balsamic vinegar at this stage.
5. Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If the soup is too thick for your liking, feel free to add more stock or water.
6. Blend the Soup
After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches. Just ensure it cools slightly to avoid splattering.
7. Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
8. Serve and Garnish
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy this warm, savory dish that brings a taste of France to your kitchen.
Tips for the Perfect French Roasted Tomato Soup
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or rosemary for unique tastes.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
- Make the soup ahead of time; it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
With these simple steps, you can whip up a delicious French Roasted Tomato Soup with Herbs that not only warms the heart but also fulfills the senses, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.