By Suprita Miiter
December 11, 2024
Tomato basil soup is a comforting blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and aromatic spices. Its rich, velvety texture and vibrant flavours make it a winter favourite. Served hot, often with bread, it’s a heartwarming dish perfect for cosy, chilly evenings.
6 ripe tomatoes 1 medium onion 3-4 garlic cloves 2 cups vegetable stock or water 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 1 tbsp olive oil or butter 1 tsp sugar Salt and pepper 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
Score an "X" on the bottom of each tomato. Blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. Peel off the skin, and roughly chop the tomatoes.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a blender.
Stir in chopped basil leaves, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot with crusty bread or croutons.