This homemade tomato soup is bursting with rich, fresh flavors, thanks to juicy, ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant Italian seasoning. With a silky-smooth texture and a comforting warmth, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a cozy evening. Pair this rustic farmhouse-style tomato soup with a crusty sourdough grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh green salad for a satisfying meal. Whether served as a starter or the main course, this easy and budget-friendly recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or einkorn flour)
- 10 medium tomatoes (about 2 pounds), chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Toppings of choice: chopped fresh basil, crumbled bacon, homemade croutons, or a drizzle of heavy cream
Directions:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add oil or butter and diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute. Stir in the Italian seasoning.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add in the chopped tomatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a low simmer for 15 minutes.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches, being careful to release steam to avoid burns.
- Ladle into bowls and top with fresh basil, crumbled bacon, homemade croutons, or a drizzle of heavy cream. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 68 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Homemade Tomato Soup from Scratch – A Farmhouse Classic
Nothing beats a bowl of warm, homemade tomato soup made from fresh, ripe tomatoes. Unlike store-bought versions, which often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess sodium, making tomato soup from scratch gives you full control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier, more flavorful meal. This classic tomato soup recipe is simple yet deeply satisfying, making it a staple for cozy meals at home.
Why Make Tomato Soup from Scratch?
Homemade tomato soup is far superior to canned varieties in terms of taste, nutrition, and freshness. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Rich Flavor: Using fresh tomatoes creates a vibrant, tangy taste that canned soups just can’t match.
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses minimal, wholesome ingredients, keeping it clean and natural.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Comforting & Versatile: Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or paired with a sandwich for lunch, tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food.
The Secret to the Best Homemade Tomato Soup
Making the perfect tomato soup depends on a few key elements:
1. Choosing the Right Tomatoes
The foundation of any great tomato soup is the quality of the tomatoes used. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are always the best option, particularly during the peak of the tomato season. If you don’t have access to fresh tomatoes, San Marzano, Roma, or vine-ripened tomatoes work exceptionally well. These varieties are naturally sweeter and less acidic, creating a balanced flavor.
2. The Importance of Slow Cooking
One of the best techniques for a rich and deep flavor is slow-cooking the tomatoes with onions, garlic, and herbs. Cooking them over medium-low heat helps release their natural sweetness, reducing acidity and enhancing the overall taste.
3. The Role of Aromatics and Herbs
Tomatoes alone provide a delicious base, but onions, garlic, and Italian herbs take the flavor to another level. Sautéing onions and garlic in butter or olive oil before adding the tomatoes deepens the soup’s richness. Adding fresh basil, parsley, or thyme just before serving gives it an extra burst of freshness.
4. Achieving the Perfect Texture
A creamy, velvety texture is key to a comforting bowl of tomato soup. Blending the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender ensures a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some tomato pieces whole. A light roux (flour cooked with butter) helps slightly thicken the soup without making it too heavy.
5. Balancing the Acidity
Tomatoes are naturally acidic, so it’s essential to balance the flavors. If the soup tastes too tangy, adding a touch of honey, sugar, or a splash of cream will mellow out the acidity. If you prefer a bit of a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add some warmth and depth.
Delicious Ways to Serve Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Classic Pairing: A grilled cheese sandwich is the most popular pairing for tomato soup. The crispy, buttery bread with melted cheese complements the soup’s tangy, savory flavors.
- Gourmet Toppings: Elevate your bowl with homemade croutons, fresh basil, crumbled bacon, shredded Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of heavy cream for a creamy texture.
- Protein-Packed Addition: Add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked quinoa for extra protein.
- Rustic Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, fresh sourdough bread, or a simple green salad for a light yet filling meal.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
One of the best things about homemade tomato soup is how well it keeps. If you have leftovers or want to meal prep for the week, follow these simple storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
- Freezing: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat when ready to enjoy.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Double the recipe and freeze in individual portions for quick, homemade meals anytime.
Health Benefits of Tomato Soup
Besides being delicious, tomato soup is packed with essential nutrients that benefit overall health:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation, support heart health, and protect against certain diseases. Cooking tomatoes actually enhances lycopene absorption, making soup one of the best ways to enjoy its benefits.
2. Supports Immunity
With high levels of vitamin C and vitamin A, this soup helps strengthen the immune system, keeping colds and flu at bay. Garlic and onions also contain natural antibacterial properties that further boost immunity.
3. Aids Digestion
Tomato soup contains a good amount of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and gut health. The combination of fresh vegetables and broth makes it light on the stomach and easy to digest.
4. Helps with Hydration
Since this soup contains a high water content from fresh tomatoes and broth, it contributes to hydration while keeping you full and satisfied.
Customizing Tomato Soup to Your Dietary Needs
This recipe is highly adaptable and can be modified for different dietary preferences:
- Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free creamy texture.
- Gluten-Free: Skip the flour or use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup instead. Ensure that your broth is gluten-free.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Reduce the number of tomatoes slightly and add heavy cream or cheese for a lower-carb version.
- Spicy Version: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for a bold kick.
Conclusion:
Homemade tomato soup is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a nourishing dish to warm up on a chilly day, this recipe is a must-try. With its fresh ingredients, rich texture, and endless customization options, it’s a timeless classic that will keep you coming back for more.
So, the next time you have fresh tomatoes on hand, skip the canned soup and make this delicious homemade tomato soup from scratch. Serve it with your favorite sides, experiment with toppings, and enjoy a bowl of pure, homemade goodness!