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When the chill of winter settles in or a rainy day calls for a cozy meal, nothing quite compares to a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. This classic dish offers more than just sustenance; it provides a sense of comfort and warmth that many of us crave. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream creates a rich and velvety texture that envelops you like a warm hug. It's a dish that has found its way into homes across the globe, serving as a delightful starter or a fulfilling meal on its own.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Indulge in the warmth of homemade creamy tomato basil soup, perfect for chilly days or cozy meals. Made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, this dish offers a rich and velvety texture that delights the senses. Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, it's ideal for quick dinners or leisurely lunches. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, and savor the nostalgia and comfort this timeless recipe brings to your table.
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Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: In a large stockpot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

    Add Tomatoes: Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes along with the vegetable broth and tomato paste. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well mixed.

      Season the Soup: Incorporate the sugar (if you choose to use it), dried oregano, salt, and pepper into the mixture. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together.

        Blend It Smooth: Once the soup has simmered, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.

          Stir in Cream and Basil: Place the pot back on low heat. Gently stir in the heavy cream and add the packed fresh basil leaves. Allow the basil to wilt and release its flavor into the soup as you cook for an additional 5 minutes. Make sure not to let it boil at this stage.

            Taste and Adjust: Before serving, take a moment to taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or pepper to match your personal preference.

              Serve Warm: Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and accompany it with crusty bread on the side, perfect for dipping. Enjoy this comforting dish on its own or as a delightful starter!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4-6 bowls