Roasted tomato soup embodies the essence of comfort and simplicity, offering a warm embrace on chilly days and a burst of summer sunshine in every spoonful. This timeless classic transforms humble ingredients into a rich and velvety concoction that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the art of crafting the perfect roasted tomato soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 onion, peeled and quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Heavy cream or coconut milk, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and peeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized.
Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or food processor. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and tomato paste.
Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier soup, pulse the blender a few times instead of blending until smooth.
Pour the blended soup into a large pot and place it over medium heat on the stove. Stir in the sugar (if using) to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Serve the roasted tomato soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk, if desired.
Roasted tomato soup is more than just a comforting bowl of warmth; it’s a celebration of the simple pleasures of good food and shared moments around the table. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch, this timeless classic never fails to delight the senses and evoke fond memories of summers past. So grab a spoon, savor each spoonful, and let the flavors transport you to a place of comfort and contentment.
