Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup. This recipe transforms humble ingredients like ripe Roma tomatoes, garlic, and carrots into a rich, velvety soup bursting with flavor. The secret lies in roasting the vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness and deepen their flavors. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a light lunch, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 6 ripe Roma tomatoes: Ideal for soups because of their meaty texture and fewer seeds.
• Several cloves of garlic: Roasted garlic provides a sweet, mellow flavor.
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds natural sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1 onion, diced: The savory base of the soup.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for roasting and sautéing.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Provides earthy, aromatic notes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an herby depth to the soup.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: Adds extra richness and texture.
• 1 small can (6 ounces) tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the soup.

Instructions

Roast the Vegetables

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice Roma tomatoes in half and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet along with unpeeled garlic cloves and chopped carrots.
3. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 30–40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are caramelized and the carrots are soft.

Sauté and Simmer

1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Stir in the chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Combine and Blend

1. Add the canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot, stirring to combine.
2. Carefully transfer the roasted tomatoes, garlic (remove skins), and carrots from the baking sheet to the pot.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

Adjust and Serve

1. If the soup is too thick, add additional chicken broth until the desired consistency is achieved.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Tomato Selection: Roma tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, but other varieties like heirloom or plum tomatoes can work too.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a luxurious texture.
• Garnish Ideas: Add croutons, grated Parmesan, or a swirl of pesto to enhance the presentation and flavor.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian. For a vegan version, skip any dairy-based garnishes and use plant-based cream if you want a creamy finish.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh basil and oregano can be added towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
No problem! A standard blender works just as well. Blend the soup in batches, being careful not to overfill the blender. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir well.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, roasted red bell peppers, celery, or zucchini can add extra layers of flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables.

How can I adjust the acidity of the soup?
If the soup is too acidic, add a small pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey to balance the flavors.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and no gluten-containing garnishes.

Conclusion

Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup is a timeless recipe that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients. The roasting process enhances the natural flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and carrots, while herbs and broth add depth and richness. Whether served with a side of crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich, this soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Enjoy its warmth, flavor, and versatility with every spoonful!