Why Make This Recipe
Roasted tomato soup is one of the ultimate comfort foods. It’s simple, rich, and packed with flavors that warm the soul. The combination of roasted tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy textures makes this soup a delight for any palate.
It’s also an excellent way to use fresh tomatoes, especially during harvest season. You can enjoy it as a main dish or a side, making it versatile for any occasion. Overall, it’s a must-try for soup lovers and anyone who appreciates the goodness of homemade food.
Equipment Needed For Roasted Tomato Soup
To make this delicious roasted tomato soup, you’ll need a few essential items. A roasting tray or oven-safe wide pot is important for bringing out the flavor of the tomatoes through roasting.
An immersion blender is highly recommended too, as it helps achieve that creamy consistency without transferring the soup to a separate blender. Additionally, you’ll need a knife for chopping and a cutting board for prepping your ingredients.
Don’t forget to have measuring spoons on hand for accurate seasoning, as well as mixing spoons for stirring. Lastly, a large pot is necessary for simmering the soup after roasting.
What You Need to Make Roasted Tomato Soup
- 3.5 lbs tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red onion (chopped)
- 1-2 garlic cloves (finely sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp good quality balsamic vinegar
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Cook Roasted Tomato Soup Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven heats, prepare the tomatoes by slicing them in half and coring them. This step is vital because it helps to concentrate the flavors as they roast. Set the prepared tomatoes aside for later use.
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a roasting tray or an oven-safe wide pot or pan that can accommodate all the tomatoes in one layer. Use medium-high heat to warm the oil until it shimmers. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become translucent. It’s important to keep stirring the onions to avoid burning.
Once the onions have softened, add the finely sliced garlic and cayenne pepper to the pan. Stir and cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors. After that, take the tomato halves and place them in a single layer, cut-side down in the pot. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over them for seasoning.
Add a teaspoon of granulated sugar to the tomatoes. This will help balance the acidity and enhance the sweetness. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes, and let the mixture cook over high heat for about 4 minutes for a quick caramelization. This sizzling step will create a nice depth of flavor in the soup.
Once the 4 minutes are up, give everything a good stir and then transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Roast the tomatoes and onion mixture in the oven for about 30 minutes. This roasting process allows the tomatoes to caramelize and develop a rich, deep flavor.
After roasting, carefully take the tray, pot, or pan back to the stove. If you used a roasting tray, transfer the roasted tomatoes to a stock pot now. Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for about 4 minutes for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Next, add the heavy cream to the pot and allow it to cook for another 2 minutes. This step adds creaminess, giving your soup that velvety finish. Take the immersion blender and blend the soup until it’s almost smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, feel free to blend it to your desired consistency.
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil and taste for seasoning. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Your roasted tomato soup is now ready to serve!
How To Make Roasted Tomato Soup
While making roasted tomato soup is simple, ensure you follow the steps closely to achieve the best flavor. The roasting of the tomatoes is key to enhancing the sweetness and richness of the soup. Combining the basic ingredients in stages allows the flavors to develop beautifully, leading to a comforting bowl of soup that is sure to impress.
If you enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, consider adding extra herbs like thyme or oregano during the roasting process for an aromatic twist. Adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper can also give your soup just the right kick if you like a bit of heat.
How To Serve Roasted Tomato Soup
Roasted tomato soup is a versatile dish that serves beautifully in a variety of ways. One classic method of serving is to ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil. A drizzle of olive oil on top can also elevate its presentation.
For those looking for a bit of indulgence, serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese. Pairing this soup with crispy croutons adds a perfect crunch that complements the creamy soup texture.
It’s also delightful to serve roasted tomato soup alongside grilled cheese sandwiches. The gooey cheese and buttery bread contrast perfectly with the heat of the soup, making for a comforting meal any day.
What To Serve With Roasted Tomato Soup
Roasted tomato soup can pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Classic combinations include grilled cheese sandwiches, but you can also pair it with homemade garlic bread for an extra flavor hit.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider serving a side salad, like a classic Caesar or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. This offers a fresh balance to the richness of the soup.
For a heartier meal, serve your soup with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad. These options provide more substance while still letting the soup shine as the star.
How To Store Roasted Tomato Soup
Storing roasted tomato soup is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely after cooking, which will help to maintain its flavor and texture.
Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply move it to the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen on the stove.
Tips To Make Roasted Tomato Soup
A few tips can take your roasted tomato soup from good to great. First, always choose ripe, sweet tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom tomatoes are particularly tasty for this soup.
Roasting the tomatoes longer can deepen their flavor even more, just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences; feel free to add more sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic or more cayenne for heat.
Using homemade chicken stock can elevate the flavor significantly. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, vegetable stock can also work well without compromising on taste.
Variation
While the classic version of roasted tomato soup is delightful as is, there are numerous variations you can try. For a Mediterranean twist, add roasted red bell peppers to the tomatoes before blending.
You can also incorporate other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. For a spicy version, toss in a few jalapeño slices during the roasting process.
Experimenting with different herbs, such as dill or parsley, can give unique flavor profiles too. Feel free to get creative and adjust ingredients to suit your taste buds!
Best Time To Make Roasted Tomato Soup
Roasted tomato soup is perfect year-round, but it shines particularly in late summer and early fall when tomatoes are ripe and in season. This is when you’ll find the sweetest and most flavorful tomatoes at markets.
However, it’s also a wonderful dish to warm up during the colder months. The comforting nature of the soup makes it a go-to option for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
One common mistake to watch for is using under-ripe tomatoes. They can result in a less flavorful soup. Ensure you choose ripe tomatoes for the best taste.
Avoid overcrowding your roasting tray; the tomatoes should be in a single layer to roast properly. If you pack them too tightly, they will steam instead of roast.
When blending the soup, you may want to be careful not to over-blend it unless you prefer a completely smooth texture. A bit of chunkiness can add character to the soup.
Nutritional Notes
Roasted tomato soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Tomatoes are high in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its health benefits.
Additionally, this soup provides vitamins C and K, as well as potassium. Heavy cream adds a dose of richness, but if you’re looking to cut calories, you can skip it or replace it with a lighter option like coconut cream.
Overall, this soup can fit into various diets comfortably and can be adjusted to cater to personal health goals.
FAQs
Can I make roasted tomato soup vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the heavy cream or use a plant-based cream substitute like coconut cream or almond milk for a vegan version.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. However, the flavor may differ slightly since fresh tomatoes have a vibrant taste. Opt for good-quality canned whole tomatoes in juice for the best results.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To give your soup more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chili peppers before roasting. You can also include red pepper flakes when serving for added spice.
Conclusion
Roasted tomato soup is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity and rich flavors in every bowl. Preparing this dish allows you to enjoy the natural sweetness of tomatoes through roasting, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
With its versatility, you can easily adapt it to your taste or dietary preferences. Whether served with a classic grilled cheese or on its own with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, roasted tomato soup is bound to warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Enjoy experimenting with variations and make this soup a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Roasted Tomato Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Slice the tomatoes in half and core them.
- Heat olive oil in a roasting tray or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Sauté the chopped onions for about 3 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add the sliced garlic and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Place the tomato halves cut-side down in the pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and add sugar and balsamic vinegar.
- Cook over high heat for about 4 minutes until caramelized.
- Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and roast for about 30 minutes until tomatoes caramelize.
- After roasting, transfer the mixture back to the stove and add chicken stock. Bring to a boil and simmer for 4 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth or to your desired consistency.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
