How to Make French Tomato and Basil Soup

French Tomato and Basil Soup is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of French cuisine. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it's perfect for a cozy dinner or a lunch treat. Follow these simple steps to create this delicious soup at home.

Ingredients

To prepare French Tomato and Basil Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole tomatoes)
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your own French Tomato and Basil Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes

Next, add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pot. Stir well to combine the flavors. If you’re using canned tomatoes, break them up with a spoon. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender. For a chunky texture, blend only half, leaving the rest unblended.

Step 5: Add Basil and Season

Add the fresh basil leaves to the blended soup and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 6: Creamy Variation

If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream at this stage and heat the soup gently without bringing it to a boil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your French Tomato and Basil Soup hot, garnished with additional basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich, making it an ideal meal option.

Conclusion

This authentic French Tomato and Basil Soup is not only easy to make, but it also bursts with fresh flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this comforting dish year-round!