Why You’ll Love This Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe
Why would you love this homemade tomato soup recipe? It’s simple, comforting, and bursting with fresh flavors.
I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, instantly warming my heart. Each spoonful is like a hug on a chilly day.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—I often pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy meal. You can easily customize it, adding herbs or spices to suit your taste.
Best of all, it’s a great way to use up a bounty of tomatoes during peak season. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this!
Ingredients of Homemade Tomato Soup
When it comes to whipping up a delicious pot of homemade tomato soup, the first step is gathering your ingredients. Trust me, once you have everything ready, you’ll be well on your way to a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that feels like a hug in a mug.
Getting your ingredients in order not only makes the cooking process smoother but also helps you avoid those last-minute dashes to the store. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to create this delightful soup!
Ingredients for Homemade Tomato Soup
- 5 quarts diced tomatoes (or 1 package of tomatoes, which equals 1 peck or 1/2 bushel)
- 6 small onions
- 1 green pepper
- 1 bunch celery
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup flour
- 1/3 cup salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Now, before you rush off to grab these ingredients, consider a couple of things. First, if you’re using fresh tomatoes, make sure they’re ripe and juicy. This will make a world of difference in flavor.
If you’re like me and sometimes forget to check your pantry, don’t fret; canned tomatoes can work just as well, especially when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season.
Also, when it comes to the onions, feel free to experiment with different types—sweet onions can add a lovely depth to your soup. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little extra flavor?
How to Make Homemade Tomato Soup
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious homemade tomato soup. First up, grab those 5 quarts of diced tomatoes (or your one peck, if you’re feeling fancy). If you went with fresh tomatoes, quarter them up, and don’t worry if they look a little messy—this is all part of the charm.
Next, take your 6 small onions and give them a good dice. There might be some tears involved, but hey, that’s just the onions doing their thing. Toss the diced onions into a large canning kettle along with 1 green pepper (chop it up, too, of course) and a bunch of celery—just chop off the ends and dice those stalks as well.
Now, it’s time to cook. Place all those lovely veggies into the kettle and let them simmer until they’re tender. Picture a beautiful medley of colors and aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Once you feel like you’re in a cooking show montage, it’s time to run the mixture through a sieve. This step is super important because it separates the juice from the chunky bits, giving you that smooth soup we all crave. After that, bring the juice back to a boil.
While your tomato magic is bubbling away, take a moment to mix 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of flour, and 1/3 cup of salt in a bowl. Then, melt 1/2 cup of butter and mix it in until it’s all combined.
Slowly add this buttery mixture to your boiling tomato juice, stirring as you go. You’ll see it thicken up nicely—it’s like watching a cooking transformation happen right in front of your eyes.
Once it reaches your desired thickness, you can pour the soup into jars and seal them with a hot bath for about 15 minutes. Just like that, you have a hearty homemade tomato soup that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a little comfort food.
Now, go ahead and enjoy your creation—just remember to savor every spoonful.
Homemade Tomato Soup Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that delicious homemade tomato soup, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up or adapt the recipe to suit your taste.
You could try using roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor or add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant twist. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk.
For heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can spice things up. Feel free to swap in different vegetables, too; carrots or zucchini can add a nice touch.
Experimenting makes it fun and uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Homemade Tomato Soup
What pairs perfectly with a warm bowl of homemade tomato soup? I love to serve it alongside a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese complements the soup’s acidity beautifully.
You can also try garlic bread for that delightful crunch and extra flavor. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a simple side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette works wonders.
For a heartier option, consider pairing it with a classic quiche or some savory stuffed bread. Each of these options elevates the experience, making my homemade tomato soup even more satisfying and delicious!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your homemade tomato soup, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano, as they can elevate the flavor profile considerably.
You might also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
If you love creaminess, stir in a bit of heavy cream just before serving.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning; sometimes a little extra salt or sugar can make all the difference.
Finally, experimenting with roasted garlic can add depth.
Enjoy your soup with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo!