Unleash the hidden flavor: discover how to make tomato soup from paste in a flash!

Tomato soup, a comforting and flavorful classic, is a culinary staple enjoyed by people of all ages. While traditional recipes often call for fresh tomatoes, there’s a convenient and equally delicious alternative: tomato paste. By harnessing the concentrated essence of tomatoes, tomato paste allows you to create a rich and savory soup with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

2. Bloom the Spices

Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil over the sautéed aromatics. Stir and cook for 30 seconds, allowing the spices to release their flavor.

3. Introduce the Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the paste darkens slightly and becomes fragrant.

4. Create the Broth

Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer and Puree

Once the soup is simmering, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.

6. Adjust Seasonings

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add additional salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the velvety tomato soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, or croutons. Serve with a warm bread roll or salad for a complete meal.

Variations and Enhancements:

• Creamy Tomato Soup: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk to the soup after pureeing for a richer and creamier texture.
• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast fresh tomatoes in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the soup for a more intense flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup for a touch of heat.
• Garden Vegetable Tomato Soup: Add chopped carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the soup for added nutrition and flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality tomato paste for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the tomato paste, as it can burn and become bitter.
• If you don’t have an immersion blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to a regular blender.
• Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Note: Elevate Your Soup Game

With its rich flavor and versatility, tomato paste is a culinary gem that transforms ordinary soups into extraordinary delights. By following these simple steps, you can effortlessly create a homemade tomato soup that rivals any restaurant-quality dish. Experiment with variations and enhancements to cater to your taste preferences and create a soup that warms your soul and delights your senses.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
A: Yes, you can substitute 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes for the tomato paste. Simply drain the tomatoes before adding them to the soup.

Q: Can I make tomato soup without vegetable broth?
A: Yes, you can use water instead of vegetable broth. However, vegetable broth adds depth and flavor to the soup.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: You can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) or by simmering the soup for a longer period of time.