Iceland Tomato Soup Recipe

Iceland’s charm isn’t just in its breathtaking landscapes, where volcanic mountains meet icy glaciers, or in its rich Viking history, but also in its unique and surprisingly delicious culinary offerings. While the country is often associated with fish and lamb, there’s a surprising comfort food that’s quietly making its mark: Icelandic tomato soup. This humble dish is a beloved favorite in Icelandic households, providing warmth and comfort during the long, cold winters.

Icelandic tomato soup is both simple and nourishing, relying on fresh, ripe tomatoes to provide a rich, vibrant base. It’s a dish that taps into Iceland’s natural bounty, combining local ingredients with a touch of tradition, to create something that is not only filling but also incredibly satisfying. If you’re in the mood for a soul-warming, hearty bowl of soup, then this Icelandic tomato soup recipe is exactly what you need. So, let’s dive into the details of this comforting, tomato-based classic!

This Icelandic tomato soup is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that combines the deep, tangy flavors of ripe tomatoes with a creamy texture, perfect for a cozy dinner or even a light lunch. The beauty of the recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it provides a depth of flavor that will leave you coming back for more. Let’s break it down step by step so you can recreate this Icelandic classic at home.

Ingredients Needed

Before you begin, here’s a list of the key ingredients that will make up the base of this delicious tomato soup:

Fresh Tomatoes: Preferably ripe and juicy, these will form the bulk of your soup’s flavor. You can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
Onion: Adds a savory depth to the soup. Yellow onions work best here.
Garlic: A couple of cloves to enhance the overall flavor profile with that rich, aromatic undertone.
Carrot: Optional, but a small grated carrot can add natural sweetness and extra body to the soup.
Tomato Paste: For an added punch of tomato flavor and richness.
Vegetable Broth: You’ll need about four cups of vegetable stock to bring the soup to a creamy consistency. Chicken broth is an alternative, but the vegetable broth helps keep the dish light and vegetarian-friendly.
Heavy Cream or Milk: To make the soup silky and smooth, creating a comforting texture.
Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the vegetables.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
Fresh Basil or Thyme: For garnish and a hint of fresh herbaceousness.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to prepare this delightful Icelandic tomato soup from scratch:

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping your fresh tomatoes into chunks. If you’re using canned tomatoes, ensure they are chopped or crushed. Dice the onion and garlic finely, and peel and grate the carrot if using.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and hot, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Carrot: Toss in the fresh tomatoes, grated carrot, and tomato paste. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook down for about 10 minutes. The tomatoes should start releasing their juices and break down into a chunky sauce.
Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes so the flavors can meld and the soup can thicken slightly.
Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend it less, leaving some tomato chunks intact.
Finish with Cream: Once blended, return the soup to the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or milk). Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or thyme. For an added touch, you can serve the soup with warm, crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches on the side.

Ingredient Insights

Tomatoes: In Iceland, fresh tomatoes might be a bit of a luxury, but they’re revered for their rich flavor, especially during the short summer months when they’re in season. In winter, Icelanders often rely on high-quality canned tomatoes, which are known to retain a lot of the tomato’s vibrant taste. Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, particularly vitamin C and lycopene, which contribute to a healthy immune system.
Onions & Garlic: These are essential for creating a savory base. Both ingredients bring sweetness and depth to the soup, and when sautéed, they soften and caramelize, adding complexity to the flavor profile. They’re also packed with anti-inflammatory properties.
Vegetable Broth: Using vegetable broth enhances the soup’s depth without overshadowing the bright acidity of the tomatoes. For a richer flavor, a good-quality broth is key. Some Icelandic recipes may substitute with lamb stock, giving the soup a meatier, heartier taste, but vegetable broth is a great all-around option for vegetarians.
Cream: The cream provides a velvety finish, turning the soup into a luxurious, smooth meal. The fat content from the cream helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, making the soup much more rounded and indulgent.

Expert Tips

Balance the Acidity: If the soup feels too tangy or acidic, you can add a small spoonful of sugar to balance it out. Icelandic recipes sometimes include this trick to mellow the acidity of the tomatoes without making the soup overly sweet.
Herbs Matter: Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can bring a vibrant, aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones can work as well, but fresh will add that extra burst of flavor. Don’t skip the herbs-they’re key to transforming this dish from good to great.
Texture Variations: For a chunkier soup, don’t fully blend the tomatoes and vegetables. This will allow some texture to remain, which is often preferred if you’re not in the mood for a smooth, creamy soup.
Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the soup a warm kick that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
Serve with Toppings: Try topping the soup with croutons, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated cheese (parmesan works wonderfully). These little additions can elevate the dish.

Recipe Variations

Tomato & Red Pepper Soup: Add roasted red bell peppers to the mix for a smoky flavor. Blend them into the soup after sautéing the onions and garlic.
Vegan Version: Skip the cream and use coconut milk or cashew cream as a substitute to keep the soup rich and creamy without any dairy.
Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a finely chopped chili pepper or a spoonful of sriracha sauce to bring some heat into the soup, creating a delicious spicy kick.
Herbed Tomato Soup: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. A dash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end can also bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.

Final Words

Icelandic tomato soup is more than just a bowl of comfort; it’s a representation of the country’s resourceful and cozy culinary style. This dish is simple enough for any night of the week yet has a depth of flavor that can rival any gourmet soup. It’s the kind of recipe that’s versatile, filling, and perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of Icelandic warmth to their kitchen.

Whether you’re curling up with a good book, hosting friends for a cozy evening, or just craving a homemade dish, Icelandic tomato soup is a timeless choice. Don’t hesitate to make it your own-add spices, herbs, or toppings that suit your taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability and the love you pour into it!

Iceland Tomato Soup Recipe