Harmons Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Tomato basil soup-there’s something so comforting and wholesome about this classic dish. It’s not just the warmth and smooth texture, but the deep, savory flavors that come together in the most delightful way. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a lazy afternoon, or just the need for something hearty, this tomato basil soup will satisfy your cravings and elevate your meal to something a bit more special.

And let’s be honest: there’s no soup quite as familiar and inviting as a well-made tomato basil. It’s often a go-to for many of us, whether served with a grilled cheese sandwich for that perfect lunch or paired with a crispy baguette to dip into that creamy, tangy goodness. It’s also one of those timeless recipes that is simple yet feels indulgent every time.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of tomato basil soup, exploring a delicious homemade recipe that brings out the best of this beloved dish. Along the way, I’ll share some tips and variations that can make it even better. Ready to dive in?

Harmons is known for delivering fresh, high-quality ingredients with an emphasis on flavor and simplicity. This tomato basil soup recipe is no different-it’s full of vibrant tomato flavor, complemented perfectly by the aromatic basil. It’s the type of soup that makes you pause and appreciate the beauty of everyday ingredients brought together in the most magical way.

You might think a soup like this could be complicated, but the beauty lies in how easy it is to make with just a few ingredients and a bit of love. And yes, the basil is the star of this show! When you mix it with ripe, juicy tomatoes, you create a pairing that’s nothing short of a culinary masterpiece.

Here’s how you can make this delicious tomato basil soup from scratch:

Ingredients Needed

To make a flavorful, comforting bowl of tomato basil soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Tomatoes (fresh or canned): Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the freshest taste, or opt for quality canned tomatoes if they’re not in season.
Fresh basil: Fresh basil is key to this recipe-it’s aromatic and bright, with a distinct, peppery flavor.
Olive oil: A rich, smooth oil that adds depth to the soup and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
Onion: A bit of chopped onion adds sweetness and a savory base to the soup.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings in a layer of depth and complexity that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Vegetable or chicken broth: The broth is essential for providing a flavorful base and giving the soup its silky texture.
Heavy cream: For a rich, creamy texture that gives the soup that smooth, indulgent consistency.
Sugar: A pinch of sugar can help balance out the acidity from the tomatoes, making the soup more harmonious in flavor.
Salt and pepper: The classic seasoning pair to bring all the flavors together.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making this soup is a simple and rewarding experience.

Prep the tomatoes: If you’re using fresh tomatoes, you’ll want to blanch them first. Score an “X” on the bottom of each tomato, then drop them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until the skin starts to peel away. After this, submerge them in ice water, then peel and chop them. If using canned tomatoes, just open the cans and set them aside.
Cook the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute or so, just until fragrant.
Add the tomatoes: Once the onions and garlic are softened, add in your chopped tomatoes. Stir to combine, then cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and their natural sweetness to come through.
Add the broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Blend the soup: Once the soup is simmered, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth and velvety. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
Finish with cream and seasoning: After blending, stir in the heavy cream, and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors combine.
Add fresh basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil right before serving, or use it as a garnish on top.
Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with more fresh basil (if desired), and enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredient Insights

The magic of tomato basil soup lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of some key ingredients:

Tomatoes: The star of the show. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are packed with flavor and antioxidants like lycopene, which has been shown to support heart health. Canned tomatoes are also a good option, especially if you can find a high-quality brand that uses minimal additives.
Basil: Basil not only adds fragrance and flavor, but it’s also rich in essential oils that offer anti-inflammatory benefits. The herb’s peppery, slightly sweet flavor works in harmony with the tomatoes, elevating the soup.
Cream: While it’s not a necessity for every tomato basil soup, heavy cream adds richness and makes the soup creamy and luxurious. It helps to round out the acidity from the tomatoes, balancing out the overall flavor.
Garlic & Onion: Both are foundational in most savory recipes. Garlic imparts a rich depth of flavor, while onions add a touch of sweetness. Together, they form a great flavor base that enhances the tomato’s natural sweetness.
Broth: The broth adds a savory background to the soup and helps thicken the texture. Chicken broth gives a deeper flavor, while vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian and lighter.

Expert Tips

Use fresh, high-quality tomatoes: If you’re making this during tomato season, fresh tomatoes will give your soup a whole new level of flavor. If not, look for canned tomatoes labeled “San Marzano” for the best taste.
Simmer longer for deeper flavor: Don’t rush the simmering process. Letting the soup cook for a little longer allows the flavors to meld together, especially when using fresh tomatoes.
Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a chunkier soup, don’t blend it completely. For a smoother texture, blend it until it’s creamy and velvety.
Basil is best added last: Fresh basil can lose its flavor and vibrancy when cooked for too long, so add it just before serving to preserve its freshness.

Recipe Variations

Tomato basil soup is versatile. Here are a few ways to mix it up:

Spicy Tomato Basil Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic for a bit of heat.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: For an extra layer of flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the pot. This brings out their sweetness and adds a slightly smoky undertone to the soup.
Vegan Tomato Basil Soup: Skip the heavy cream and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead. For a dairy-free option, use vegetable broth to keep the flavor balanced.
Add Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

Final Words

There’s something undeniably cozy about a bowl of homemade tomato basil soup. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the aromatic basil, makes it a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you’re enjoying it on a rainy day or serving it up for guests, this soup is guaranteed to bring comfort and satisfaction to any meal.

Harmons Tomato Basil Soup Recipe