Imagine coming home after a long day, feeling the chill in the air, and craving a comforting and hearty meal. What could be better than a steaming bowl of homemade tomato soup with a side of crispy grilled cheese? This classic combination not only warms your soul but also satisfies your taste buds with its rich flavors and creamy texture. With our easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to create this delightful dish in no time, making it the perfect go-to for those cozy nights in. So grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting seconds and thirds.
Ingredients for Homemade Tomato Soup
Tomatoes
The star ingredient of tomato soup is, of course, tomatoes! You will need ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for tomatoes that are red and firm, avoiding any that are overly soft or have blemishes.
Onion
Onion adds depth and flavor to the tomato soup. Choose a medium-sized onion and finely chop it for the recipe.
Garlic
Garlic brings a deliciously aromatic element to the soup. You’ll need a few cloves of garlic, minced, to infuse the soup with its distinct taste.
Vegetable Broth
Vegetable broth forms the savory base of the tomato soup. You can use either homemade or store-bought vegetable broth, depending on what you have available. Make sure to choose a low-sodium option if you prefer to control the saltiness of the soup.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic, giving them a rich and fragrant flavor. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
Basil
Fresh basil leaves add a burst of freshness to the tomato soup. Chop the basil leaves just before adding them to the soup to retain their vibrant flavor.
Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the soup. Use it sparingly, tasting as you go, to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds a subtle kick to the tomato soup. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Sugar
A pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and bring out their natural sweetness. Be careful not to overdo it, as the soup should still have a savory taste.
Instructions for Homemade Tomato Soup
Preparation
- Wash the tomatoes and remove any stems or blemishes. Cut them into quarters and set them aside.
- Peel the onion and mince it finely. Peel and mince the garlic cloves as well.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves into small pieces and keep them aside.
Cooking the Soup
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add the minced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes aromatic.
- Add the quartered tomatoes to the pot, along with the vegetable broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and cooked down.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar.
- Simmer the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, stir in the chopped basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
- Ladle the homemade tomato soup into bowls and serve hot.
Ingredients for Grilled Cheese
Bread Slices
For the classic accompaniment to tomato soup, you’ll need slices of your favorite bread. Choose a bread that holds up well to grilling, such as a crusty French baguette or sturdy whole wheat bread.
Butter
Butter is the key to achieving that perfect golden crust on your grilled cheese. Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of each bread slice for a deliciously crispy finish.
Cheddar Cheese Slices
Cheddar cheese is the go-to option for a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Use thick slices of cheddar cheese to ensure a gooey and melty center.
Instructions for Grilled Cheese
Preparation
- Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
Assembling and Cooking the Sandwich
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the heated surface.
- Add the cheddar cheese slices on top of the bread slice.
- Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese to create a sandwich.
- Cook the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts.
- Carefully flip the sandwich, using a spatula, to cook the other side.
- Once both sides are evenly golden and the cheese is melted, remove the sandwich from the heat.
- Allow the grilled cheese to cool for a minute before slicing it diagonally or into halves.
- Serve the hot and crispy grilled cheese alongside a bowl of homemade tomato soup.
With these detailed instructions and carefully measured ingredients, you can now enjoy a comforting and delicious homemade tomato soup with a side of grilled cheese. It’s the perfect combination for a cozy lunch or dinner, guaranteed to warm your soul. Enjoy!
