Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup
Introduction
For those who adore comforting dishes with a touch of gourmet flair, creamy roasted garlic tomato soup is the perfect recipe. It combines the rich complexity of roasted garlic and tomatoes with creamy goodness, making it a delightful meal option for any time of the year.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
To make this creamy roasted garlic tomato soup, you’ll need:
• Fresh tomatoes (approximately 3 pounds)
• Garlic (1 bulb, roasted)
• Yellow onion (1 medium, diced)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Vegetable broth (3 cups)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Smoked paprika or your favorite seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Prep Time
The preparation time for this recipe is around 15 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables, seasoning ingredients, and preparing everything needed to begin cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the creamy roasted garlic tomato soup is approximately 45 minutes, as the tomatoes and garlic need to roast thoroughly for enhanced flavor.
The total time, including prep and cooking, is 1 hour.
This recipe serves a yield of 4 to 6 portions, depending on serving size. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as leftovers.
Enjoy this delectable soup with freshly baked bread, croutons, or a side salad for an unforgettable meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Roasted Garlic
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off a whole bulb of garlic to expose the cloves.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the garlic, wrap it in aluminum foil, and roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Let it cool before use.
Roast the Vegetables
1. On a large baking sheet, arrange halved Roma tomatoes, chopped red bell pepper, and a diced red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Toss everything to ensure even coating.
3. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the veggies are slightly charred.
Prepare the Soup Base
1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Add tomato paste and stir, allowing it to cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
3. Stir in vegetable broth, ensuring the tomato paste is fully dissolved. Then lower the heat slightly.
Combine Roasted Vegetables
1. Remove the roasted garlic from its skin by squeezing the softened cloves out.
2. Add the roasted garlic, tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper to the pot.
3. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and let everything simmer for an additional 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Blend the Soup
1. Turn off the heat.
2. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the mixture until smooth, or transfer the soup in batches to a high-powered blender for blending. Be cautious with hot liquids.
Add Creaminess
1. Return the soup to the pot if using a blender.
2. Stir in your choice of heavy cream, coconut cream, or plant-based milk.
3. Simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes to allow the creamy texture to develop.
Season and Serve
1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if needed.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or crispy croutons, if desired.
Notes
Roasting Time Variations
– Depending on the size of your tomatoes and bell peppers, roasting times might vary slightly. Ensure the edges are slightly charred for the best flavor.
Blending Safety
– If using a standing blender, blend the soup in small batches and avoid overfilling to prevent the lid from popping off due to steam.
Make it Vegan
– To keep the recipe vegan, opt for coconut cream or another plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk instead of heavy cream.
Storage Tips
– Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
Optional Additions
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for a richer flavor.
Choosing Tomatoes
– Roma tomatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their meaty texture and sweeter taste, but other tomato varieties can also work.
Thicker or Thinner Soup
– For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth. To thin it out, gradually add more broth or water while simmering.
Cook Techniques
Roasting Garlic
To achieve the creamy flavor for your soup, the garlic needs to be roasted. Trim the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast in the oven until golden and soft. This enhances its sweetness and infuses a deep flavor into the soup.
Caramelizing Tomatoes
For a rich tomato flavor, roasting the tomatoes is essential. Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, sprinkle with seasoning, and arrange them on a baking sheet. Roast until they soften and their natural sugars release, caramelizing them to bring out their bold taste.
Blending the Soup
After roasting, the tomatoes, garlic, and other ingredients should be blended for a smooth, velvety texture. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer everything into a standalone blender.
Simmering for Depth of Flavor
Once blended, simmer the soup for an extended period. This helps meld the flavors together and allows the components like the roasted garlic, tomatoes, and vegetable stock to fully integrate into a flavorful base.
Adding Creamy Elements
A touch of creamy texture can be added with coconut milk or heavy cream depending on your preference. Stir it in at the end of cooking for the best results while ensuring the soup remains smooth and luscious.
FAQ
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can make this soup vegan by using vegetable stock and substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or any other plant-based cream alternative.
What type of tomatoes work best for this recipe?
Roma or plum tomatoes work best due to their meaty texture and lower water content, but you can also use cherry tomatoes or any ripe tomatoes you have on hand.
How can I store leftover soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to store it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months.
Do I have to roast the garlic and tomatoes?
Roasting is highly recommended as it enhances the flavors by caramelizing the natural sugars in the garlic and tomatoes. However, if you’re short on time, you can sauté them instead for a quicker version.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, you can add a hint of spice by including red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of your favorite hot sauce during cooking.
What can I serve with this soup?
This creamy roasted garlic tomato soup pairs perfectly with a crusty loaf of bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh side salad. These complements make it a satisfying and hearty meal.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes when fresh tomatoes aren’t available. Opt for high-quality canned whole peeled or crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
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Conclusion
This Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup is a comforting and rich dish that combines robust flavors with a creamy texture. Perfect for a cozy meal on chilly days, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Its balance of roasted garlic and tangy tomatoes makes it an irresistible option for both lunch and dinner. Simple yet satisfying, this soup is a must-try for any cooking enthusiast.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A perfect pairing for creamy roasted garlic tomato soup, this gooey and crispy sandwich enhances the soup’s comforting flavors.
Herb-Infused Flatbread
Serve this alongside the soup to add an aromatic, chewy complement to the dish. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and garlic for extra flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Croutons
Top the soup with these crispy, cheesy croutons to add crunch and enhance the garlic flavor profile.
Spinach and Cheese Quesadilla
A hearty and cheesy side dish, this quesadilla adds a twist to the classic tomato soup combination.
Fresh Garden Salad
Balance the creaminess of the soup with a crisp and refreshing salad made with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters are a savory addition that complements the richness of the tomato soup.
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