Ingredients
Method
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Tomatoes:
- Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to release their natural juices.
Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches, then return it to the pot.
Season and Add Cream:
- Stir in the sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and heavy cream or whole milk. Mix well and heat gently, but avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling.
Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm. Pair with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
Notes
- Tomato Choice: Use ripe Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, substitute with canned whole tomatoes (28 ounces).
- Make It Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup (without the cream) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Add the cream after reheating.