Tomato Soup Recipe
This Ultimate Vegan Tomato Soup Recipe celebrates wholesome, plant-based ingredients designed to warm you from the inside out. Whether new to vegan cooking or a long-time enthusiast, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful meal. By roasting vegetables, allowing the soup to simmer, and incorporating a blend of fresh herbs and seasonings, you achieve a deep, satisfying flavor that rivals any traditional tomato soup.
Make this soup as a comforting dinner, a nourishing lunch, or even as a starter for a dinner party—the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the vibrant colors, robust aromas, and the rich, satisfying taste of our vegan tomato soup. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to make this recipe uniquely yours!
tomato soup recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Fresh Tomatoes of ripe, organic tomatoes (or two 28 oz cans of whole peeled tomatoes for convenience)
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth (ensure it’s free of animal products)
- 1 Onion yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic minced (for that extra punch of flavor)
- 2 Carrots medium carrots, diced (adds natural sweetness)
- 2 stalks Celery diced (builds depth in flavor)
- 1 Red Bell Pepper roasted and chopped (optional for a smoky sweetness)
- 1 cup Fresh Basil roughly chopped
- 1-2 tbsp Fresh Thyme dried or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (or any high-quality vegan oil)
- Salt and Pepper To taste
- A Pinch of Sugar Optional, to balance the tomatoes’ acidity
- 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar (optional, deepens flavor)
- 1/2 cup Optional Creaminess coconut cream or cashew cream for a richer texture
- 1 cup Thickener Option cooked white beans (for extra body and protein)
Instructions
- Preparation and Sautéing:In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized—about 7-10 minutes. This step is essential for building a rich flavor base.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. If you’re using roasted red bell pepper, add it now for an additional layer of smoky sweetness.
- Tomato Time:If you’re using fresh tomatoes and prefer a smooth soup, consider blanching them to easily peel off the skins. (See FAQ below for details on peeling tomatoes.)Add the tomatoes (fresh or canned) to the pot. If you like a thicker texture, include the optional white beans at this stage—they’ll help create a creamier consistency as they break down.Stir in the vegetable broth, basil, and thyme. If you enjoy a hint of acidity, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and add the pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Simmer and Blend:Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld and deepen. For an ultra-smooth texture, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can work in batches using a countertop blender. (Always blend in small amounts to avoid hot splashes.)
- Finishing Touches:Return the soup to a gentle simmer. Stir in the coconut milk or cashew cream if you’re aiming for extra creaminess. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For an extra flavor boost, add a little more fresh basil right before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:Ladle the hot, aromatic soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
Enhancing Flavor: For a deeper flavor, try roasting the tomatoes and garlic in the oven before adding them to your soup. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars, intensifying the tomato taste.
Texture Adjustments: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture and leave some of the vegetables whole.
Vegan “Cheesy” Twist: Sprinkle in nutritional yeast just before serving for a subtle cheesy flavor without using dairy.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a gentle kick that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
Frequently asked questions:
Do I need to peel tomatoes for soup?
Peeling tomatoes isn’t strictly necessary, but it depends on the texture you desire. The tomato skin can sometimes add a slightly bitter note and may not blend as smoothly. If you’re aiming for a silky, creamier soup, blanching the tomatoes and peeling them is recommended. However, if you enjoy a heartier texture, leaving the skins on is perfectly acceptable.
What is the thickener in tomato soup?
Tomato soup often naturally thickens as the tomatoes break down and release their juices. In this vegan recipe, we use the natural pulp of the tomatoes along with optional white beans to add body. For an even thicker consistency, some recipes incorporate a roux made from vegan butter and flour or additional pureed vegetables.
How to deepen the flavor of tomato soup?
Deepening the flavor can be achieved by:
- Roasting: Roast tomatoes, garlic, and even onions before adding them to your pot.
- Simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer for a longer period gives the flavors time to meld.
- Herbs and Spices: Incorporate a generous amount of fresh or dried herbs and spices like basil, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Acidity: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of red wine can enhance the soup’s complexity.
- Umami Enhancers: Nutritional yeast or roasted red bell peppers add an extra layer of savory goodness.