Name: Creamy Tomato Soup From Canned Tomatoes - Winter Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 3 medium carrots, diced; 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated; 4 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup fresh basil leaves and tender stems; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or a generous pinch of dried thyme); One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable stock or broth; 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.); Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day, a culinary hug when you need it most. There’s something undeniably comforting about a rich, velvety tomato soup, especially when the world outside is cloaked in frost and the days are short. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to cozy kitchens, filled with the scent of simmering goodness. People adore this particular version because it proves that incredible flavor doesn’t require hours of prep or exotic ingredients. The magic truly lies in its simplicity and the surprising depth it achieves, proving that even humble canned tomatoes can be transformed into something truly spectacular. This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) is all about bringin extractg you that soul-warming satisfaction with minimal fuss, making it a perfect go-to for those days when you crave comfort food that’s both deeply delicious and effortlessly achievable.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 medium carrots, diced
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
4 tablespoons tomato paste
Optional: up to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh basil leaves and tender stems
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or a generous pinch of dried thyme)
One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable stock or broth
Optional: ½ cup dry, unoaked white grape juice
2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.)
Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

Preparing the Aromatics

Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables

To start building the rich flavor of our Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup, grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your diced yellow onion and diced carrots. We want these vegetables to soften and become slightly translucent, not brown and crispy. This process, called sautéing, gently coaxes out their natural sweetness and lays the groundwork for a deeper tomato flavor. Stir them occasionally, allowing about 8-10 minutes for them to reach this tender stage. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is already a good sign of deliciousness to come!

Step 2: Infuse with Garlic and Tomato Paste

Once the onions and carrots are nicely softened, it’s time to introduce the garlic. Add your finely chopped or grated garlic to the pot and stir it in with the vegetables. Cook for just about 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn its flavor bitter. Immediately after the garlic is fragrant, add the 4 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir the tomato paste into the vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is crucial for developing a more intense, caramelized tomato flavor. Cooking the tomato paste darkens it slightly and removes any raw, tinny taste, concentrating its essence beautifully.

Building the Tomato Base

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Flavorings

Now for the star of our soup – the tomatoes! Pour in the entire 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to incorporate the tomato paste and vegetables. Next, add the 2 cups of vegetable stock or broth. This liquid will form the body of our soup. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a subtle layer of complexity and brightness, now is the time to add the optional ½ cup of dry, unoaked white grape juice. This isn’t a typical soup ingredient, but its acidity and subtle sweetness can elevate the tomato flavor without making the soup taste like grape. Finally, add the fresh basil leaves and tender stems, along with the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme if you’re using it). The stems of the basil are packed with flavor and will infuse the soup as it simmers. You can also toss in the optional crushed red pepper flakes at this stage if you enjoy a little warmth in your soup.

Simmering and Finishing

Step 4: Simmer and Blend for Creaminess

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor will become. After simmering, you have a couple of options for achieving that luscious, creamy texture. For a completely smooth soup, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until velvety smooth. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If you’re using an immersion blender, make sure to tilt the pot slightly to get all the solids. If you prefer a soup with a bit more texture, you can skip the blending step entirely or blend only half of the soup. Always be cautious when blending hot liquids!

Step 5: Enrich with Cream and Season

Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, it’s time to add the richness. Stir in your 2 cups of heavy cream, milk, or your chosen plant-based milk. Heat the soup gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until it’s warmed through. Do not let the soup boil after adding the cream, as this can cause it to curdle. Finally, season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might be surprised how much salt and pepper can bring out the vibrant tomato flavor. Serve hot, perhaps with a crusty bread for dipping or a swirl of extra cream and a few fresh basil leaves for garnish.

Conclusion:

We’ve reached the end of our journey crafting the hearty and comforting Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)! This recipe proves that even with pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels both luxurious and deeply satisfying, perfect for chasing away those winter chills. Its simple elegance makes it a weeknight hero, yet it’s sophisticated enough to impress guests. Don’t be afraid to make a big batch; leftovers are incredibly delicious and reheat beautifully.

For serving, this soup is fantastic on its own, but consider pairing it with a crusty grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette also complements its rich flavor wonderfully. When it comes to variations, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, or stir in a swirl of pesto for an extra layer of herbaceous brightness just before serving. You could also add some cooked pasta or rice to make it even more filling.

I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring every spoonful of this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes). It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite music, and let the comforting aromas fill your kitchen. Happy cooking!

FAQs:

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

While this recipe is specifically designed for the ease and consistent flavor of canned tomatoes, you can absolutely use fresh. If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll want to use about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes, blanched, peeled, and seeded before pureeing. The flavor profile might be slightly brighter and tangier.

Q: How long can I store this soup?

This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: My soup isn’t as creamy as I’d like. What can I do?

To increase creaminess, you can try adding a little more heavy cream or half-and-half in the final stages of cooking, allowing it to heat through without boiling. Another option is to stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone at the end for a richer, smoother texture.