Tomato and Fresh Basil Soup Recipe ๐ ๐ฟ
Overview:
A delightful and comforting dish that infuses your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, this Tomato and Fresh Basil Soup recipe is a culinary masterpiece from “Vegetarian Cooking” by Linda Fraser. Perfect for those chilly evenings or whenever you crave a burst of freshness, this soup promises to delight your taste buds with every spoonful.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves a cozy gathering
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups Italian plum tomatoes, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 cups vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato paste
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, shredded
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Heat Oil and Butter: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until it begins to foam, creating a fragrant base for your soup.
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Sautรฉ Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the saucepan and sautรฉ gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and softens, without browning.
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Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and minced garlic, infusing the mixture with rich flavors that will form the heart of your soup.
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Pour in Liquids: Add the vegetable stock, dry white wine, and sun-dried tomato paste to the saucepan, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the pan and let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the tomatoes from sticking to the bottom.
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Blend and Strain: Transfer the cooked soup and shredded basil leaves to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, then pass the mixture through a sieve into a clean pan, ensuring a velvety texture.
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Incorporate Cream: Return the strained soup to the stove and stir in the heavy cream, gently heating the soup without allowing it to reach a boiling point. This step adds luxurious richness to your creation.
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Adjust Consistency: Check the consistency of the soup and adjust it by adding more vegetable stock if needed. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the warm soup into heated bowls and garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves, adding a final touch of vibrant color and flavor.
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Enjoy: Serve the Tomato and Fresh Basil Soup immediately, savoring each spoonful of its comforting warmth and inviting aroma.
Storage Tip:
- This delightful soup can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Simply prepare it as instructed, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat gently on the stove, ensuring the flavors remain as delicious as ever.
With its blend of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy texture, this Tomato and Fresh Basil Soup is a culinary masterpiece that promises to elevate any mealtime experience. Whether served as a starter or enjoyed as a light meal on its own, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
