“Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe”
**Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic Made Easy**
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of warm, velvety tomato soup. Whether paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich or enjoyed on its own, tomato soup is a timeless favorite that satisfies the soul. While store-bought options are convenient, nothing beats the flavor and freshness of a homemade roasted tomato soup. By roasting the tomatoes, you unlock their natural sweetness and add a depth of flavor that elevates this dish to gourmet status. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make!
In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy and delicious recipe for homemade roasted tomato soup, along with tips to customize it to your taste. Let’s dive in!
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### **Why Roast the Tomatoes?**
Roasting tomatoes is the secret to achieving a rich, complex flavor in your soup. The process caramelizes the natural sugars in the tomatoes, intensifying their sweetness and adding a subtle smokiness. It also enhances the overall texture of the soup, making it creamy without the need for heavy cream.
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### **Ingredients for Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup**
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
#### **For the Roasted Tomatoes:**
– 2 pounds (about 6-8 medium) ripe tomatoes (Roma, cherry, or vine-ripened work well)
– 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
– 4-5 garlic cloves, peeled
– 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (optional)
#### **For the Soup Base:**
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for added richness)
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– ½ cup fresh basil leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
– ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
– Salt and pepper to taste
#### **Optional Garnishes:**
– Croutons
– A drizzle of olive oil or cream
– Fresh basil leaves
– Shredded Parmesan cheese
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and halve the tomatoes. If using cherry tomatoes, leave them whole.
3. Arrange the tomatoes, onion, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme, if using.
5. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, slightly charred, and fragrant.
#### **Step 2: Blend the Ingredients**
1. Once the roasted tomatoes have cooled slightly, transfer them (along with the onions and garlic) to a blender or food processor. Be sure to include any juices from the baking sheet for maximum flavor.
2. Add the fresh basil leaves and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture instead of blending it completely.
#### **Step 3: Simmer the Soup**
1. Pour the blended mixture into a large pot over medium heat.
2. Stir in the vegetable or chicken broth and tomato paste, if using. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if needed.
3. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar, if desired.
#### **Step 4: Add Creaminess (Optional)**
1. For a creamy tomato soup, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Remove the soup from heat and give it a final stir.
#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings, such as croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or fresh basil.
2. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
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### **Tips for Customizing Your Tomato Soup**
– **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
– **Make it heartier:** Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes for a more filling meal.
– **Add protein:** Top with shredded chicken, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein.
– **Use canned tomatoes:** If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, you can substitute with high-quality canned tomatoes. Simply roast them with the onion and garlic for a similar effect.
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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
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