Tomato Mary Soup
When it comes to comfort food, few things beat a warm bowl of Tomato Mary Soup. Rich, tangy, and slightly sweet, this creamy tomato soup is perfect on a chilly day or whenever you crave a cozy, satisfying meal. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich, croutons, or a fresh salad for a classic lunch or dinner experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Classic: A creamy, flavorful tomato soup that’s perfect for any season.
- Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Versatile: Serve as a starter, lunch, or light dinner.
- Customizable: Add cream, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
This soup is light, satisfying, and packed with nutrients from fresh tomatoes.
Time Taken
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20–25 minutes
- Total: 30–35 minutes
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or canned whole tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes:
Stir in tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes. Add chopped fresh or canned tomatoes, and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. - Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in vegetable or chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. - Blend the Soup:
Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. - Add Cream (Optional):
Stir in heavy cream or milk for a rich, creamy texture. Heat gently, but do not boil. - Serve:
Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with bread or croutons.
You Must Know
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
- Adjust the seasoning at the end for a perfectly balanced taste.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Heavy cream → coconut milk or cashew cream for dairy-free version
- Onion → shallots for a slightly sweeter flavor
- Fresh tomatoes → canned diced or crushed tomatoes in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
- Top with homemade croutons or a swirl of cream.
- Serve as a starter with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Chef’s Special Tips
- Roast the tomatoes and garlic before adding to the soup for deeper flavor.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Stir in fresh herbs at the end for a bright, aromatic finish.
Conclusion
Tomato Mary Soup is a timeless comfort food; creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-have in your recipe repertoire. Craving a bowl of warmth? Whip up this Tomato Mary Soup today and enjoy the cozy flavors of homemade comfort in every spoonful!