Hearty and Flavorful Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe

Title: Hearty and Flavorful Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe

Introduction:
As the weather turns cooler, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of homemade soup. One classic favorite that never fails to satisfy is roasted tomato soup. This recipe elevates the traditional tomato soup by roasting the tomatoes, which enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party, this hearty and flavorful roasted tomato soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1 large onion, quartered
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Place the halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and peeled garlic cloves on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.

3. Roast the Vegetables:
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized. The onion should be tender, and the garlic should be fragrant.

4. Blend the Soup:
Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or food processor. Add the broth and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend less or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

5. Simmer the Soup:
Pour the blended mixture into a large pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. For a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk.

6. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Conclusion:
This roasted tomato soup recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with robust flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds. Roasting the tomatoes, onion, and garlic brings out their natural sweetness and adds a rich, savory depth to the soup. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup is a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. Enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes all year round with this delicious recipe.