Vegan Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a rich flavor to the base of the soup.

Onion: Provides a sweet and savory depth to the soup.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that complements the tomatoes.

Tomatoes: The star ingredient, giving the soup its vibrant color and fresh taste.

Vegetable broth: Forms the liquid base of the soup, enhancing its savory profile.

Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant, slightly sweet flavor that elevates the soup.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, make sure to cook them until they are translucent and fragrant, but not browned. This will ensure a sweeter and more delicate flavor in your soup. Additionally, when adding the fresh basil leaves before blending, tear them by hand instead of chopping to release more of their natural oils and enhance the aroma and taste of the soup.

• Olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle, pleasant flavor to the soup.

• Onion - Substitute with leek: Leeks offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the soup.

• Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a more delicate and sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding a different depth to the soup.

• Tomatoes - Substitute with red bell peppers: Red bell peppers can provide a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, though the soup will have a different taste profile.

• Vegetable broth - Substitute with mushroom broth: Mushroom broth adds a rich, umami flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the soup.

• Basil leaves - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh and citrusy flavor, though it will change the traditional taste of the soup.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, providing depth to the soup.

• Pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick, which can enhance the flavor profile of the soup.

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavors.
• Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers work well.
• For short-term storage, place the containers in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, using a microwave-safe bowl and stirring halfway through the heating process.
• If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil before serving to enhance the flavors.

• Stovetop method:

  1. Pour the leftover soup into a pot.
  2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Once the soup is heated through, serve hot.

• Microwave method:

  1. Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Ensure the soup is evenly heated before serving.

• Double boiler method:

  1. Fill the bottom pot of a double boiler with water and bring to a simmer.
  2. Place the soup in the top pot.
  3. Stir occasionally until the soup is heated through.
  4. Serve hot, enjoying the gentle reheating process that preserves flavor.

• Slow cooker method:

  1. Pour the soup into the slow cooker.
  2. Set to low heat and cover.
  3. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once the soup is hot, ladle into bowls and serve.

• Pot: used to heat the olive oil and cook the soup ingredients
• Wooden spoon: ideal for sautéing the onion and garlic without scratching the pot
• Knife: essential for chopping the onion, garlic, and tomatoes
• Cutting board: provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables
• Measuring spoons: ensures accurate measurement of olive oil
• Measuring cups: used to measure the vegetable broth and tomatoes
• Blender: used to blend the soup until smooth
• Ladle: helpful for serving the hot soup into bowls

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, garlic, and tomatoes ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

Use an immersion blender: Instead of transferring the soup to a blender, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to save time and reduce cleanup.

Preheat the pot: Start heating the olive oil while you chop the vegetables to cut down on waiting time.

Batch cooking: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later.