Simple Homemade Tomato Soup

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Tomato soup is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s humble yet deeply satisfying, with a rich, creamy texture and a depth of flavor that takes you back to childhood. This recipe is simple, straightforward, and brimming with the kinds of flavors that make you want to come back for seconds.

Using pantry staples like canned tomatoes, carrots, and a touch of bacon for a smoky twist, this homemade tomato soup elevates the classic to something truly special. Whether served as a light lunch or paired with a gooey grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat.

The Inspiration Behind This Recipe

Growing up, tomato soup was a staple in my kitchen—not the homemade kind, but the canned variety my mom would whip up in minutes. It was comforting and nostalgic, especially when served with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.

As I’ve grown as a cook, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of homemade tomato soup. There’s something magical about taking simple ingredients like canned tomatoes and onions and turning them into something rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor. This recipe is inspired by the classics, but the addition of bacon and a touch of cream gives it a modern twist that makes it truly irresistible.

Key Ingredients

Each ingredient in this soup plays an important role in creating its rich, comforting flavor. Let’s break it down:

Base Ingredients

• Bacon: The smoky, savory foundation of this soup. Bacon adds depth and richness, making every spoonful more satisfying.
• Carrots: Chopped carrots lend a subtle sweetness and help create a naturally creamy texture when the soup is blended.
• Yellow Onion: A staple in many soups, onions bring mild, savory undertones that balance the sweetness of the tomatoes and carrots.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic depth, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.

Flavor Enhancers

• Tomato Paste: This concentrated tomato flavor booster adds richness and intensifies the overall taste of the soup.
• Flour: A small amount of flour helps thicken the soup, giving it that perfect, creamy consistency.
• Dried Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs infuse the soup with earthy, aromatic flavors, elevating the simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

The Stars

• San Marzano Tomatoes: These whole canned tomatoes are known for their sweet, rich flavor, making them the perfect choice for a tomato-based soup. Crushing them by hand adds a rustic texture.
• Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, chicken broth adds savory depth and helps tie all the flavors together.

Finishing Touches

• Cream (Optional): A splash of cream rounds out the soup with a luxurious, velvety texture.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Adjust to taste as you go.

How to Make Simple Homemade Tomato Soup

Step 1: Fry the Bacon

Start by frying the chopped bacon in a large soup pot over medium-low heat. Let it cook until crispy and browned, about 5-8 minutes. The rendered fat will form the base for sautéing the vegetables.

Pro Tip: Cook the bacon slowly to ensure it renders as much fat as possible. This adds extra flavor to the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots, onions, and minced garlic to the pot with the bacon. Sauté for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and aromatic.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Flour

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until it darkens in color and caramelizes slightly. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir for about a minute. This will help thicken the soup.

Pro Tip: Cooking the flour removes its raw taste and ensures a smooth texture in the finished soup.

Step 4: Build the Broth

Pour the canned tomatoes and their juices into a bowl and crush them gently with your hands for a rustic texture. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.

Optional: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend the canned tomatoes before adding them to the pot.

Step 5: Simmer and Blend

Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, blend the soup in batches using a blender, being careful with the hot liquid.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in a splash of cream if desired, and season with kosher salt to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade tomato soup is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing—gooey, buttery, and perfect for dipping.
• Crusty Bread: A warm slice of sourdough or baguette is ideal for soaking up every drop.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top for an extra savory kick.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of thyme for a pop of color and flavor.

Storing and Reheating

This soup is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this soup is as approachable as it is delicious.
2. Rich and Flavorful: The bacon, tomatoes, and aromatics come together to create a soup that’s deeply satisfying.
3. Versatile: Whether you enjoy it as a starter, a light meal, or paired with hearty sides, this soup is endlessly adaptable.
4. Comforting: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of tomato soup to lift your spirits on a cold or dreary day.

A Bowl of Homemade Comfort

This simple homemade tomato soup is more than just a recipe—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic dish made with love.

Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or starting new traditions, this soup is sure to warm your heart and your home. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—share your thoughts, tweaks, or serving ideas in the comments below!

Here’s to cozy bowls and cherished moments. ❤️

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