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When the weather turns chilly or when you simply need a moment of culinary comfort, nothing compares to a warm bowl of soup. Among the myriad of comforting soups, Cozy Tomato Basil Embrace stands out as a quintessential choice, perfect for any season. This recipe is not just about feeding the body; it's about nourishing the soul, offering a delightful blend of flavors that envelop you like a warm hug.

Homestyle Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Warm up your chilly days with the Cozy Tomato Basil Embrace, a delicious and nurturing tomato soup recipe that’s perfect for any season. This comforting dish combines fresh ingredients and rich flavors, evoking feelings of home and warmth. With step-by-step instructions, you'll learn how to sauté, simmer, and blend for a perfect bowl every time. Pair it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a fulfilling meal, making it a favorite for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Enjoy the journey of creating this heartwarming soup!

Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 cans (14 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes

3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)

1/2 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)

Juice of 1 lemon

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Crusty bread (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Vegetables: In a spacious pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the aroma fills the air.

    Incorporate Tomatoes & Seasonings: Pour the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth into the pot. Add the sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend all ingredients, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

      Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for approximately 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it melds the flavors beautifully. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.

        Blend the Soup: After the simmering time, using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. For those who prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend it in batches using a countertop blender to achieve your desired consistency.

          Combine Cream & Basil: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the heavy cream, followed by the chopped basil leaves and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Warm the mixture gently, ensuring it does not reach a boil to maintain the cream's smoothness.

            Taste & Final Adjustments: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to elevate the flavors to your liking.

              Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into individual bowls. Garnish with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side, perfect for dipping and enjoying every last drop.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4-6