### Perfecting Your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Introduction to Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting classic that combines the sweet tang of tomatoes with the fresh aroma of basil. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a bowl of soup that's perfect for any season, especially on chilly days.
#### Ingredients Needed:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or more if using fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil for garnish
#### Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Immersion blender (optional) or regular blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preparation:**
- Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Measure out 4 cups of broth and set aside.
2. **Cooking Aromatics:**
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and soft, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
3. **Adding Garlic:**
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant and slightly golden.
4. **Introducing Tomatoes and Broth:**
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes (with their juice), ensuring you use a blender or immersion blender later to make it smooth.
- Add the vegetable broth and dried basil into the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. **Simmering:**
- Place the saucepan on medium-low heat and let everything simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- During this time, ensure you stir occasionally to avoid any sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
6. **Blending:**
- Once the soup has reached your desired consistency (you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for ease), remove it from heat and carefully transfer it to a regular blender if needed.
- Blend until smooth, then return it to the saucepan over low heat.
7. **Adding Cream:**
- Stir in the heavy cream just before serving, ensuring that it's heated but not boiling as this can curdle the cream.
8. **Seasoning and Serving:**
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish each serving with chopped fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor and color.
9. **Storage Tips:**
- Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze portions for later use.
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Enjoy your creamy, comforting soup that's perfect for any meal!