Velvety Tomato Soup (Print Version)

Silky smooth tomato soup with fresh ingredients, ready in 45 minutes and perfect paired with a grilled cheese sandwich.

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 2 tbsp olive oil
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 2 tbsp tomato paste
05 - 2 lbs (900 g) ripe tomatoes, chopped (or two 14.5 oz cans whole peeled tomatoes)

→ Liquid & Seasoning

06 - 2 cups vegetable broth
07 - 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
10 - 1/4 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh)
11 - 1/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
02 - Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
03 - Add chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned), broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or blend in batches using a countertop blender (careful with hot liquids).
05 - Stir in cream or coconut milk if using, and adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Return to low heat if needed, then serve warm.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For extra richness, add a pat of butter before serving.
02 - Roasting the tomatoes beforehand adds depth of flavor.
03 - Serve with croutons, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil.