Just Kitchen It

The perfect soup on a cold day

🍅 Homemade Tomato Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or diced)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (for extra richness)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for creaminess)

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics
   In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook another 1 minute.
2. Add Tomatoes & Broth
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Add sugar, salt, pepper, and basil.
3. Simmer
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Blend Until Smooth
   Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot (or carefully transfer to a blender). Blend until silky smooth.
5. Add Cream (Optional)
   Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve Warm
   Ladle into bowls and top with a drizzle of cream, croutons, or shredded cheese if desired.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches
• Add a swirl of pesto or sour cream for extra flavor
• Serve with fresh basil leaves on top