Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• Croutons or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches), carefully puree the soup until smooth.
7. Return the pureed soup to the pot if using a regular blender.
8. Stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, and sugar.
9. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10. Remove the pot from the heat.
11. Serve the Creamy Tomato Basil Soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and accompanied by croutons or crusty bread for dipping.
12. Enjoy the comforting and delicious flavors of this creamy tomato soup!

History:

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a beloved classic that combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil with the smoothness of cream.

Tomato soup has been enjoyed for centuries, but the addition of basil and cream is a more recent development.

The combination of tomatoes and basil, a classic Italian pairing, brings a refreshing and herbaceous note to the soup, elevating it from a simple tomato-based broth.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup has become a staple in many cuisines around the world, especially during cooler months when a comforting bowl of soup is a welcoming treat.

Interesting Facts:

- This soup can be made with fresh or canned tomatoes, but using high-quality canned crushed tomatoes ensures a consistent flavor throughout the year.

- For a vegan version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture.

- The addition of sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances their natural sweetness.

- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic and comforting meal.

Note: You can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more or less vegetable or chicken broth, depending on your preference.