This rich, velvety soup features oven-roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights. Easy to make and customizable for vegan diets.
There is nothing quite like the smell of roasting tomatoes filling the kitchen on a rainy afternoon.
I remember whipping this up last minute when a friend canceled plans and I needed a serious hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- Ripe tomatoes: Roasting these concentrates their flavor for a deep base.
- Onion and carrot: These add a necessary savory backbone and subtle sweetness.
- Garlic: Roasting mellows the bite into something creamy and rich.
- Olive oil: Helps the vegetables caramelize nicely in the oven.
- Vegetable broth: Use a high quality stock since it makes up the body of the soup.
- Heavy cream: Adds that velvety finish we all crave in comfort food.
- Fresh basil: Stirring this in at the end keeps the flavor bright and fresh.
- Sugar: Just a pinch helps if your tomatoes are not perfectly sweet.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the layers together.
Instructions
- Roast the vegetables:
- Get your oven hot and let the tomatoes char slightly for that smoky depth.
- Simmer the base:
- Combine the roasted veggies with broth and let them meld together.
- Blend it smooth:
- Puree everything until you have a silky texture.
- Add the cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream and adjust the seasonings to taste.
This soup became a staple in my house the first winter I lived alone and craved something warm.
Making It Vegan
Coconut cream works beautifully here if you want to keep it dairy free.
Spice It Up
A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick that cuts through the cream.
Perfect Pairings
Grilled cheese is the classic partner for a reason but a crusty baguette works too.
- Use sourdough for your sandwich to stand up to dipping.
- Add a little parmesan to the bread before grilling.
- Dip immediately while everything is melty.
Enjoy every spoonful of this warm comfort.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this soup vegan?
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Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- → Can I use canned tomatoes?
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Fresh roasted tomatoes yield the best flavor, but canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
- → What can I serve with this soup?
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Pair with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a complete comfort meal.
- → How can I make the soup spicier?
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Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while roasting the vegetables for a subtle kick of heat.