Description
A rich and comforting classic tomato soup made with pantry staples. This recipe uses a technique of separating tomato juice and solids to build deep flavor, resulting in a smooth, creamy, and vibrant soup that pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (28-ounces each) diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or fat-free half-and-half (optional)
Instructions
- Step: In a strainer set over a large bowl or a liquid measuring cup, drain the canned tomatoes, pressing lightly to release all of the juice.
- Step: Add broth to the tomato juice to equal 3 1/2 cups total. Set tomatoes and liquid aside.
- Step: In a 4- or 5-quart pot set over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step: Add about 2/3 of the drained tomatoes, the bay leaf and the brown sugar. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are sizzling and fragrant.
- Step: Stir in the tomato paste and the flour. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
- Step: Stir in the reserved tomato juice/broth mixture, the remaining tomatoes, baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step: Remove from the heat and discard the bay leaf. Puree the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Stir in the cream, if using, and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Notes
Baking soda cuts the acidity of the tomatoes and mellows out the flavor. This soup can be made up to three days in advance and refrigerated in a covered container. It also freezes very well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 64 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 217 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg