Tomato soup reimagined: can you make it with just ketchup?

Tomato soup is a comforting and delicious dish that can be enjoyed year-round. But what if you don’t have any fresh tomatoes on hand? Can you make tomato soup with ketchup? The answer is yes! Ketchup is a convenient and affordable ingredient that can be used to create a flavorful tomato soup.

Ingredients

To make tomato soup with ketchup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato ketchup
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine all of the ingredients.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips

• For a creamier soup, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk before blending.
• If you don’t have any diced tomatoes, you can use an additional can of tomato sauce or 2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes.
• For a spicier soup, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
• To make a vegan tomato soup, use vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese.

Variations

• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast 2 pounds of Roma tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for 30 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Add the roasted tomatoes to the soup along with the other ingredients.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Add 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil to the soup before blending.
• Spicy Tomato Tortilla Soup: Add 1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, 1 can (15 ounces) of corn, and 1/2 cup of chopped bell pepper to the soup before blending.

Benefits of Using Ketchup in Tomato Soup

• Convenience: Ketchup is a shelf-stable ingredient that is easy to find at most grocery stores.
• Affordability: Ketchup is a relatively inexpensive ingredient, making it a budget-friendly option for making tomato soup.
• Flavor: Ketchup adds a sweet and tangy flavor to tomato soup, making it more flavorful and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

So, can you make tomato soup with ketchup? Yes, you can! Ketchup is a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a delicious and budget-friendly tomato soup. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting and flavorful bowl of soup that is perfect for any occasion.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I use other types of ketchup in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of ketchup that you like. However, note that the flavor of the soup will vary depending on the type of ketchup you use.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to serve, simply reheat the soup over medium heat until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. When you are ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it over medium heat until warmed through.