Hampurilaissämpylät

Tomato soup

Tomato soup

Tomato soup, a classic comfort food, has been warming hearts and satisfying taste buds for generations. This simple yet flavorful dish has earned its place as a staple in cuisines around the world, offering a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes that appeal to palates of all ages.

tomato soup

A brief history

The origins of tomato soup can be traced back to the late 19th century when Joseph Campbell’s company first introduced condensed tomato soup in 1897. This innovation revolutionized the canned food industry and helped popularize tomato soup across America. However, variations of tomato-based soups and stews have existed in different cultures for much longer, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Nutritional benefits

Beyond its comforting qualities, this soup offers several nutritional benefits:

  1. Rich in lycopene: Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
  2. Vitamin C: A cup of tomato soup provides a good dose of vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
  3. Low in calories: Most tomato soups are relatively low in calories, making them a satisfying option for those watching their weight.

tomatoes

Best tomatoes for tomato soup

The best tomatoes for tomato soup include several varieties that can enhance the flavor and texture of your soup. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roma Tomatoes (Plum): Roma tomatoes, also known as plum tomatoes, are oblong-shaped with a strong, tangy flavor. They have very few seeds and are less watery than other varieties, making them ideal for cooking and canning. Their meaty flesh adds richness to the soup.

2. San Marzano Tomatoes (Plum): San Marzano tomatoes are elongated, deep red, and meatier than other types of tomatoes. They have low water content and fewer seeds, resulting in a more concentrated flavor. These tomatoes are less acidic, contributing to a smoother, well-balanced tomato soup. Look for authentic San Marzano tomatoes grown near Naples for the best flavor.

3. Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are incredibly juicy and offer a fresh, sweet flavor that can elevate your soup. Roasting them in the oven with olive oil and garlic intensifies their sweetness. Simmering cherry tomatoes in your soup allows their flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Beefsteak Tomatoes: Beefsteak tomatoes have a classic tomato flavor with a slight sweetness. Their thick flesh breaks down easily, resulting in a smooth sauce. These versatile tomatoes work well for this soup and can be used as an all-purpose option when other varieties are not available.

Choose the tomatoes that best suit your taste preferences and enjoy a delicious homemade tomato soup!

Variations

While the classic version remains popular, chefs and home cooks have created numerous variations of tomato soup:

  • Creamy tomato bisque
  • Roasted tomato and basil soup
  • Tomato and red pepper soup
  • Gazpacho (cold soup)

The versatility of this soup allows for endless customization. Common additions include herbs like basil or oregano, a splash of cream for richness, or a sprinkle of croutons for texture.

The perfect pairing

No discussion of tomato soup would be complete without mentioning its iconic partner: the grilled cheese sandwich. This classic combination offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the crispy, gooey sandwich complementing the smooth, tangy soup.

Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or a warming snack on a cold day, tomato soup continues to hold a special place in our culinary hearts. Its simplicity, versatility, and nostalgic appeal ensure that this beloved dish will remain a favorite for generations to come.

tomato soup

Tomato soup

A classic comfort food, has been warming hearts and satisfying taste buds for generations. This simple yet flavorful dish has earned its place as a staple in cuisines around the world, offering a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes that appeal to palates of all ages.
Tulosta Tallenna
Valmisteluaika 10 minutes
Kypsennysaika 20 minutes
Ruokalaji Soup
Annoksia 4

Ainesosat
  

  • 1 kg of tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp of olive oil
  • 1 onion
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 5 dl vegetable stock
  • 2 dl oat cream
  • 0.25 tsp of salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • fresh basil

Valmistus
 

  • Wash the tomatoes and cut them into wedges. Peel and chop the onion and garlic.
  • Heat the oil in a large pot and sauté the onion and garlic for a few minutes.
  • Add the tomatoes and vegetable stock. Let it boil for about 20 minutes until the tomatoes have softened.
  • Purée the soup with a blender. Return the soup to the pot and add oat cream, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil again.
  • Chop the basil and sprinkle it over the soup. Serve with bread or salad.

Vinkkejä

  • You can replace oat cream with regular cream or another plant-based cream or just leave it out altogether.
  • Opt for fresh tomatoes whenever possible. They bring complexity and allow you to adjust seasoning and acidity. Consider using Roma or San Marzano tomatoes. Roma tomatoes have meaty flesh, fewer seeds, and low moisture content. San Marzano tomatoes, native to Italy, are dense, sweet, and perfect for tomato soup.
  • When fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned tomatoes are a great alternative. Canned tomatoes are often harvested and preserved at their peak, ensuring good flavor even during winter.
  • Use unsalted butter for richness without cream. Tomato paste amplifies the tomato flavor. Balsamic vinegar adds depth and boosts the tomato taste.
  • Basil pairs wonderfully with tomatoes. Add fresh basil for extra flavor. Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or coconut milk before serving.
  • Roasting fresh tomatoes and peppers with olive oil and seasonings can intensify their flavor. Blend the roasted mixture until smooth and creamy for a robust soup.

Soup recipes