Creamy Tomato Soup
Why This Creamy Tomato Soup Works So Well
There's nothing quite like a perfectly executed creamy tomato soup. Over the years of testing pantry staples and optimizing flavor profiles, this particular combination stands out because of how it balances texture and taste without requiring an extra trip to the grocery store.
Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or trying to impress guests with minimal effort, the key lies in the preparation of the core ingredients. By following these specific ratios, you're guaranteed a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Proteins: Can be swapped 1:1 with tofu, seitan, or diced mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Dairy: Use coconut milk or cashew cream if you need a dairy-free alternative.
- Aromatics: Onion powder and garlic powder can bridge the gap if you're out of fresh produce.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 chopped Onions
- 2 sticks Celery
- 300g Carrots
- 500g Potatoes
- 4 Bay Leaf
- 5 tblsp Tomato Puree
- 2 tblsp Sugar
- 2 tblsp White Vinegar
- 1½ kg Chopped Tomatoes
- 500g Passata
- 3 Vegetable Stock Cube
- 400ml Whole Milk
Instructions
- 1
Put the oil, onions, celery, carrots, potatoes and bay leaves in a big casserole dish, or two saucepans. Fry gently until the onions are softened – about 10-15 mins. Fill the kettle and boil it.
- 2
Stir in the tomato purée, sugar, vinegar, chopped tomatoes and passata, then crumble in the stock cubes. Add 1 litre boiling water and bring to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 15 mins until the potato is tender, then remove the bay leaves. Purée with a stick blender (or ladle into a blender in batches) until very smooth. Season to taste and add a pinch more sugar if it needs it. The soup can now be cooled and chilled for up to 2 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- 3
To serve, reheat the soup, stirring in the milk – try not to let it boil. Serve in small bowls with cheesy sausage rolls.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
* Nutritional values are estimated based on standard ingredient pairings.
Chef's Cooking Tips
Ensure all ingredients are prepped before you start cooking (mise en place). This prevents burning and ensures even cooking times across the board.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Most variations of this recipe freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Ensure it's completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Is there a way to make it less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce or omit any chili flakes or hot sauces mentioned. You can substitute with smoked paprika to maintain flavor without the heat.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes! You can chop all the vegetables and prepare any sauces up to 2 days in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
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Meet Sarah ✨
Hi, I'm Sarah! I'm passionate about creating delicious, accessible recipes that help you make the most out of your kitchen. Whether it's reducing food waste or exploring vibrant new flavors, my goal is to make cooking a joy for everyone.
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