Tomato soup is a popular and comforting dish that is loved by people all around the world. It is a versatile recipe that can be made using fresh tomatoes, tomato puree, or even tomato juice. In this article, we will focus on how to make a delicious and flavorful tomato soup using tomato juice. This recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few simple ingredients. So, let’s dive into the world of tomato soup and learn how to make this delightful dish!
Gather the Ingredients
Before we start making the tomato soup, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here are the ingredients required for this recipe:
1. Tomato juice – 2 cups
2. Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
3. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
4. Carrot – 1 medium, grated
5. Celery – 1 stalk, finely chopped
6. Butter – 2 tablespoons
7. All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons
8. Vegetable broth – 1 cup
9. Dried herbs (such as basil, thyme, or oregano) – 1 teaspoon
10. Salt and pepper – to taste
11. Heavy cream – 1/2 cup (optional)
12. Fresh basil or parsley – for garnish (optional)
Sauté the Vegetables
To begin the tomato soup-making process, heat a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, grated carrot, and finely chopped celery. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender and translucent. This step contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the soup.
Add the Flour
Once the vegetables have softened, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over them. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute or two. This step helps to thicken the tomato soup and gives it a velvety consistency.
Pour in the Tomato Juice and Vegetable Broth
Next, pour the tomato juice into the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined. The tomato juice forms the base of the soup while the vegetable broth adds depth and richness to the overall flavor.
Add the Seasonings
Now, it’s time to add the dried herbs, salt, and pepper to the pot. The herbs not only enhance the taste but also give a delightful aroma to the tomato soup. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Remember, it’s always better to start with a small amount of seasoning and add more if needed.
Cook and Simmer
Once all the ingredients are combined, bring the tomato soup to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken. Stir occasionally to ensure that it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Optional: Add Heavy Cream
For those who prefer a creamier tomato soup, this is the perfect time to add heavy cream. Slowly pour in the cream while stirring continuously. The cream adds richness and a luscious texture to the soup. However, if you want to keep the soup lighter, you can skip this step altogether.
Blend and Serve
Once the tomato soup has simmered and developed its flavors, it’s time to blend it into a smooth consistency. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup to a countertop blender, depending on your preference. Blend the soup until it becomes smooth and velvety.
Garnish and Enjoy
Now that the soup is ready, it’s time to garnish and enjoy! Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the soup. Serve the soup with your favorite bread or croutons for a complete and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, making tomato soup from tomato juice is a delightful and flavorful recipe that anyone can master. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a comforting and tasty bowl of soup. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy dish for a chilly evening, this tomato soup recipe is sure to please your taste buds. So, grab a pot, gather the ingredients, and start cooking!