Transport yourself to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany with this vibrant and flavorful tomato basil soup. Made with simple, fresh ingredients, this recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking, offering a comforting yet light meal perfect for any occasion. Forget bland, watery soups; this recipe delivers a rich, deeply satisfying taste experience thanks to the careful roasting of the tomatoes and the generous use of fragrant basil. It's the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy, making it irresistible to both seasoned cooks and culinary novices.
This gluten-free recipe is remarkably easy to follow, even for busy weeknights. Ready to savor the authentic taste of Tuscany? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own bowl of sunshine.
Tools Needed
- Pan
Ingredients
- Rapeseed oil
- Finely chopped onions
- Garlic
- Bay leaf
- White wine vinegar: a drop
- Sugar: a spoonful
- Tomato puree
- Chopped tomatoes
- Diced potatoes
- Vegetable stock: 1 level scoop (16g) per 1 liter of water
- Shredded basil: a little pinch
- Gluten-free croutons
- Crisp pancetta
- Basil pesto
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Build Flavor Base
- Add rapeseed oil to a hot pan.
- Stir in finely chopped onions and garlic.
- Stir in bay leaf and sauté until soft, without browning.
- Add a drop of white wine vinegar and a spoonful of sugar; cook until reduced.
- Stir in tomato puree for color and body.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup
- Pour in chopped tomatoes and diced potatoes.
- Bring to a boil, then add vegetable stock (16g per liter of warm/hot water).
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes until potatoes are soft.
Step 3. Blend and Finish
- Blend the soup until smooth.
- Stir in a pinch of shredded basil.
Read more: Italian Zucchini Soup with Parmesan Croutons: A Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Add gluten-free croutons for a crispy texture.
- Garnish with crisp pancetta (optional, not vegetarian/vegan).
- Drizzle with basil pesto for extra color and flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. What can I substitute for fresh basil?
Dried basil can be used, but use about 1/3 the amount. Other herbs like oregano or thyme would also work well, though the flavor will be slightly different.
3. Is this recipe easily adaptable for larger groups?
Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredient quantities proportionally to suit your needs. A larger pot will be necessary for larger batches.
This simple yet elegant Tuscan Tomato & Basil Soup is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques. Enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of this classic Italian dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a light yet satisfying lunch. Buon appetito!