Homemade Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is a beloved classic that has been cherished in homes worldwide for its simplicity and comforting flavors. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a hearty main course or simply sipped on a chilly evening to warm you up from the inside out. If you're looking to whip something up quickly, this tomato basil soup is an excellent choice. It takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and serves four people generously.

To start with the delicious creation of your homemade tomato basil soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups of diced tomatoes
• 2 medium-sized onions, chopped finely
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 3 sprigs fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups of vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer texture)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnishing)

Instructions:

1. Begin by sautéing the chopped onions in a large pot with olive oil until they become soft and translucent. This step usually takes about 5 minutes. It's important to note that you should stir occasionally to avoid burning the onions.
2. Add the minced garlic into the mixture and cook for another minute, allowing it to release its aroma but ensuring not to let it get too brown as this could alter the flavor.
3. Next, add the diced tomatoes along with the vegetable broth or water. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat down to simmer for about 15 minutes. Simmering allows all flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures that the tomato soup is well seasoned.
4. Incorporate the dried oregano into the mixture while continuing to let it simmer. Oregano adds a wonderful Mediterranean touch to the dish, complemented by fresh basil, which can be added towards the end of cooking time for a more vibrant flavor.
5. Once your tomato base has reached a rich and thick consistency, remove half of this soup from the heat source and blend it using an immersion blender until smooth. This technique not only enhances texture but also brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes further.
6. Return the blended soup back into the pot, stirring in the heavy cream if desired. Allow everything to come back up to a light simmer once more before adjusting salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
7. To finish off, add fresh basil leaves and let them wilt slightly in the warmth of the soup. Season with additional salt or pepper as necessary.

Garnishing & Serving:

For added elegance, top each bowlful of tomato basil soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and perhaps some fresh herbs like parsley for garnish. This not only looks appealing but also offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tomato Basil Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your tomato basil soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Quality Matters: Always use fresh ingredients, especially when dealing with tomatoes. Their freshness will significantly impact the overall taste of your soup.
• Sweetness and Salt Balance: Be mindful about balancing sweetness from natural sources like tomatoes against saltiness which can overpower other flavors. A little goes a long way here.
• Avoid Overcooking: Once you've achieved the desired thickness, avoid overcooking your soup as it could become too thick and affect its texture negatively.

Tomato basil soup is an easy yet rewarding dish to prepare at home. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy a bowl of comforting goodness anytime without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed alone as a starter or served alongside grilled sandwiches or chicken skewers, it's sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.