A warm bowl of tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and smooth creaminess. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or as a light lunch, this dish delivers a balance of warmth and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal. The gentle acidity of the tomatoes is mellowed by the cream, making every spoonful a perfect blend of tangy and velvety goodness. Ideal for meal prep, this soup can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later, making it a must-have recipe in your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 (14-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir in the vegetable broth, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
- If using heavy cream, stir it into the soup until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the tomato soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Kcal: 90 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Nigel Slater is a celebrated British food writer and chef known for his love of simple yet flavorful home-cooked meals. His approach to food revolves around using fresh, high-quality ingredients and allowing their natural flavors to shine. His tomato soup recipe follows this philosophy, relying on a handful of pantry staples to create something truly special.
Tomato soup has a long-standing history in European and American cuisines. In the UK, it has been a favorite comfort dish for generations, often evoking nostalgia for childhood meals and cozy evenings. Slater’s version captures this sentiment while elevating the dish with carefully selected ingredients that add depth and character.
What Makes This Tomato Soup Special?
While tomato soup is a common dish, Nigel Slater’s version stands out for several reasons:
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Balanced Flavor Profile – The combination of sweet tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and slow-cooked vegetables creates a soup that is neither too acidic nor too bland. The natural sweetness of the carrots and onions enhances the tomatoes’ tanginess, making for a well-rounded dish.
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Simple Yet Elegant – Unlike many modern recipes that overcomplicate tomato soup with unnecessary ingredients, Slater’s recipe keeps things simple, allowing each element to shine.
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Creamy Yet Light – The optional addition of cream gives the soup a velvety texture without overpowering the fresh tomato flavor. This allows you to adjust the consistency based on your preference.
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Perfectly Seasoned – The use of basil and oregano adds a subtle herby note, while a touch of salt and pepper brings all the flavors together harmoniously.
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Easily Adaptable – This recipe can be modified for different dietary preferences, making it a versatile dish suitable for various lifestyles.
Why Make Tomato Soup at Home?
While store-bought tomato soup is convenient, nothing compares to the taste and nutritional value of homemade soup. Here’s why you should try making Nigel Slater’s Tomato Soup at home:
1. Freshness and Quality
Homemade tomato soup allows you to use fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring a richer and more vibrant flavor compared to canned or pre-packaged versions. You can also control the sodium and sugar levels, which is crucial for those looking for healthier meal options.
2. Health Benefits
Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to overall health. They are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.
Additionally, this soup contains carrots, celery, and garlic, all of which offer essential nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber.
3. Customization Options
One of the biggest advantages of making tomato soup at home is the ability to customize it to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a creamy consistency, a spicier kick, or additional ingredients like roasted red peppers, the possibilities are endless.
Tips for Enhancing the Flavor and Texture
If you want to take this soup to the next level, consider the following expert tips:
1. Use High-Quality Tomatoes
The key to a delicious tomato soup is using the best tomatoes available. If you’re making this in the summer, opt for fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes. In the colder months, canned San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent substitute, as they provide a sweet and rich taste.
2. Slow Cook the Vegetables
Sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery on low heat for a longer time enhances their natural sweetness, creating a deeper and more complex flavor in the soup.
3. Don’t Skip the Herbs
Basil and oregano bring an earthy aroma that complements the tomatoes beautifully. Fresh basil works wonderfully as a garnish, adding a burst of freshness to each spoonful.
4. Adjust the Consistency
If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer for a longer time to reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, if you like a silky smooth texture, strain the soup after blending for a refined consistency.
5. Add a Splash of Cream or Butter
For a luxurious texture, stir in a small amount of heavy cream, coconut milk, or butter before serving. This balances the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a richer mouthfeel.
What to Serve with Tomato Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some great ideas:
1. Crusty Bread
A warm loaf of sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta is perfect for dipping into the soup. The crispiness of the bread contrasts beautifully with the smooth texture of the soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A classic pairing, grilled cheese and tomato soup is the ultimate comfort meal. The crispy, buttery bread and gooey cheese make an irresistible combination.
3. Salad
For a lighter meal, pair the soup with a fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette. A Caesar salad or arugula salad complements the soup’s flavors well.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Serving this soup with roasted Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or bell peppers adds more texture and a delightful smoky taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, this soup stores well and can be easily reheated for later meals.
Refrigerator Storage
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
This soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour it into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove over medium heat.
Reheating Tips
To maintain the best flavor, reheat the soup slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Variations of the Recipe
If you’d like to experiment with different flavors, consider these variations:
- Spicy Tomato Soup – Add red pepper flakes or chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream for an ultra-smooth texture.
- Tomato and Red Pepper Soup – Roast red bell peppers and blend them with the tomatoes for a smoky depth.
- Vegan Tomato Soup – Use plant-based cream or coconut milk instead of dairy, and opt for vegetable broth.
Conclusion:
Nigel Slater’s Tomato Soup is a timeless dish that embodies simplicity, warmth, and nourishment. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and endless versatility, it’s a recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire.
Whether you enjoy it as a quick weekday meal or a cozy weekend treat, this soup is a reminder that the best dishes are often the simplest. By using fresh ingredients and following a few expert tips, you can create a bowl of comfort and satisfaction that will leave you coming back for more.