Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

There's something deeply comforting about a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, especially when paired with golden, crispy sourdough dippers. This velvety soup combines the bright acidity of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic sweetness of fresh basil, all brought together with a luxurious swirl of cream. The sourdough dippers, grilled to perfection with butter and a hint of garlic, transform this simple soup into an interactive, soul-warming experience. Whether you're seeking comfort on a chilly evening or looking for an elegant starter that feels effortless, this recipe delivers pure satisfaction in every spoonful.

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The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. By sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then simmering crushed tomatoes with vegetable broth and aromatic basil, you create layers of flavor that taste like they've been developing for hours. The heavy cream adds body and richness, while the immersion blender transforms everything into a restaurant-quality bisque. Meanwhile, the sourdough dippers offer the perfect textural contrast—crispy on the outside, tender within, with a subtle garlic kiss that makes them impossible to resist.

Ingredients

• Soup: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion (chopped), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste), 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
• Sourdough Dippers: 1 small sourdough loaf (cut into thick slices), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened), 1 garlic clove (halved)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.

Step 2

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4

Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil.

Step 6

Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7

For the sourdough dippers, preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on both sides of each sourdough slice.

Step 8

Grill the bread slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. While still warm, rub each slice lightly with the cut side of the garlic clove.

Step 9

Cut bread into strips for dipping.

Step 10

Ladle hot soup into bowls, garnish with extra basil, and serve with sourdough dippers on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the smoothest, most velvety texture, make sure to blend the soup thoroughly with an immersion blender, working in circular motions to catch any remaining chunks. If using a countertop blender, work in batches and fill only halfway to prevent hot liquid from erupting. When grilling the sourdough, maintain medium heat to ensure even browning without burning—the butter should sizzle gently but not smoke. The garlic rub is best applied while the bread is still warm so the aromatic oils release their full flavor. If you prefer thicker soup, reduce the vegetable broth slightly or simmer a few extra minutes to concentrate the flavors.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different dietary needs and taste preferences. For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use plant-based butter for the dippers. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when simmering the soup or sprinkle them over the finished bowl. Roasted red peppers can be blended in for added depth and sweetness. For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned when in season—simply blanch, peel, and crush about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. The sourdough can be replaced with any crusty artisan bread, though sourdough's tangy flavor complements the soup beautifully.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this creamy tomato basil soup as a cozy lunch with a simple green salad, or present it as an elegant starter for dinner parties. The sourdough dippers can be arranged on a separate plate or partially submerged in the soup for dramatic presentation. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a swirl of cream for visual appeal. This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir. For a complete meal, serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh caprese salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

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This creamy tomato basil soup with sourdough dippers is more than just a recipe—it's an invitation to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of homemade comfort food. The aromatic steam rising from the bowl, the satisfying crunch of golden bread meeting silky soup, and the fresh burst of basil in every bite create a sensory experience that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you're cooking for yourself on a quiet evening or sharing with loved ones around the table, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and joy in equal measure. Make it once, and it will quickly become a cherished staple in your recipe collection.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for dippers?

Sourdough bread is ideal because its firm texture crisps nicely when grilled and holds up well for dipping.

→ Can I substitute the cream to make it dairy-free?

Yes, plant-based creams like coconut or cashew cream create a similar velvety texture without dairy.

→ How do I enhance the basil flavor?

Adding fresh chopped basil both during cooking and as garnish enhances the herbaceous aroma and taste.

→ What’s the best way to blend the soup?

Using an immersion blender directly in the pot ensures smoothness; alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender.

→ Can I add a spicy kick to this dish?

Yes, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the soup while simmering for gentle heat.

→ How long should the sourdough slices be grilled?

Grill the sourdough slices 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy for optimal texture.