Introduction
There’s something unbelievably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, especially on a chilly day. This rich and velvety soup is packed with bursts of flavor from fresh ingredients, making it the perfect meal to share with family or enjoy on your own. Whether you serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or just indulge by itself, this soup will wrap you in warmth with every luscious spoonful. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large crockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Next, add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients beautifully.
- Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing those flavors to meld into a luscious blend.
- Once the cooking time is up, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy, turning it into a velvety delight.
- Stir in the heavy cream, mixing thoroughly until everything is well combined and warmed through.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a touch of brightness and flavor.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference, perhaps adding a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth. If you love a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of vegetable broth slightly. This soup can also be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily uses the slow-cooking technique, which allows for the tomatoes and herbs to deeply infuse their flavors into the soup. Using an immersion blender lets you achieve that perfectly smooth texture without the need to transfer hot soup to a blender, reducing mess and maintaining warmth.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes! If you have fresh tomatoes, you can use about 3 pounds, peeled and chopped instead of canned tomatoes.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover soup in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup vegan? Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato basil soup is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl that brings people together. Perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to fill your home with the rich aroma of this delicious soup. Enjoy every creamy bite!