This is a straightforward, dependable tomato soup with a smooth texture and gentle acidity. It uses tinned tomatoes, making it reliable all year round and ideal for cooks who want consistent results without complication.
Slowly cooking the onion builds sweetness, which balances the tomatoes naturally. The soup is blended until smooth and finished simply, keeping it familiar and comforting.
Recipe Information Block
Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Equipment: Large saucepan, wooden spoon, stick blender or jug blender
Ingredients
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 medium onion, finely chopped
-
1 small carrot, finely diced
-
1 tablespoon tomato purée
-
2 x 400 g tins chopped tomatoes
-
750 ml vegetable stock
-
1 small pinch sugar
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Method
-
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over low to medium heat. Add the onion and cook gently for 6 to 8 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring regularly.
-
Add the diced carrot and cook for a further 5 minutes. The carrot will soften slightly and add natural sweetness.
-
Stir in the tomato purée and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to darken slightly and lose its raw taste.
-
Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, and sugar. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 15 minutes.
-
Remove from the heat and blend the soup until smooth.
-
Return the soup to low heat, season with salt and black pepper, and warm through gently without boiling.
Practical Tips
-
Keep the heat gentle when cooking the onion to avoid bitterness.
-
If the soup tastes sharp, add a little more sugar rather than salt.
-
Blend carefully in batches if using a jug blender.
Variations
-
Stir in a splash of milk for a softer, lighter finish.
-
Add a small knob of butter at the end for extra smoothness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with toast, a grilled cheese sandwich, or simple buttered bread.
Storage and Reheating
Cool completely before storing. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently, stirring well.
