Introduction
A timeless comfort food, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for any chilly day. With an enriching creaminess and the freshness of basil, it’s a twist on the classic tomato soup, made effortlessly in the slow cooker.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
800 g canned crushed tomatoes
600 ml chicken or vegetable broth
150 g onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
30 g fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
100 ml heavy cream
30 g grated Parmesan cheese
15 g sugar
3 tbsp olive oil
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. In a slow cooker, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, half of the chopped basil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir the mixture well, cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors meld together and the onions are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth directly in the slow cooker, or let it cool slightly and blend it in batches in a regular blender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sugar into the pureed soup until everything is well incorporated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to taste.
6. Continue to cook the soup for another 15-30 minutes on low to warm through.
7. Before serving, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the remaining fresh basil over the top.
8. Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwich.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine the canned crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, half of the fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Cooking Process
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to infuse and the onions to become tender, creating a rich and heartwarming base for your soup.
Step 3: Blend for Smoothness
After cooking, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the slow cooker until smooth. If you prefer, let the soup cool slightly, then blend it in batches in a regular blender for a silky texture.
Step 4: Add Creaminess
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and sugar into the pureed soup. Mix well until all ingredients are beautifully incorporated, adding a luxurious creaminess that enhances the tomato base.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Take a moment to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add additional salt or pepper to suit your personal preference, ensuring each spoonful is perfectly seasoned.
Step 6: Final Cooking
Continue to cook the soup for another 15-30 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and warm through, providing a delightful aromatic experience in your kitchen.
Step 7: Garnishing
Before serving, drizzle the top of the soup with olive oil and sprinkle the remaining fresh basil over it. This not only adds flavor but also brings a vibrant pop of color to your dish.
Step 8: Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, accompanied by your favorite crusty bread or gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comforting experience.
Notes
Storage Recommendations
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing Option
For longer storage, this tomato basil soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, where it can be stored for up to 3 months.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Serving Enhancements
Top the soup with croutons, extra Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of pesto for an elevated presentation and flavor boost. Pair it with a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Bringing Out the Flavor
For an even richer taste, consider roasting the garlic and onions before adding them to the pot. This will deepen their flavor and enhance the overall profile of the soup.
Cook Techniques
Combining Ingredients
When using a slow cooker, it’s important to layer your ingredients properly. Start with liquids at the bottom, then add solid ingredients on top. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows for the flavors to meld together more deeply compared to quick cooking methods. Setting your slow cooker on low for longer hours helps achieve a rich, balanced taste.
Blending for Creaminess
Using an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker is an efficient way to achieve a smooth consistency for soups. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly to prevent splatters.
Incorporating Dairy
Add heavy cream and cheese towards the end of the cooking process. This prevents them from curdling and maintains the desired creaminess of the soup.
Tasting and Adjusting
Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or sugar to enhance the flavor, ensuring the soup meets your personal preferences.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need to blanch and peel them, then crush them before adding to the slow cooker.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or celery for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely so they cook well.
What can I serve with this soup?
This creamy tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is an effortlessly delightful dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a perfect addition to any meal, especially during the colder months. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, this soup is not only a comfort food classic but also a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed in various ways.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Combo
Pair your delicious soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal that never goes out of style.
Herbed Croutons
Add homemade herbed croutons on top of the soup for a crunchy texture and additional flavor.
Caprese Salad
Serve alongside a fresh Caprese salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and drizzled balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.
Spicy Tomato Basil Soup
Incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that enhances the tomato flavor.
Pasta Addition
Stir in cooked pasta like small shells or macaroni to make the soup heartier and more filling.
Grilled Chicken or Sausage
Top with slices of grilled chicken or sausages for a robust meal that’s both fulfilling and flavorful.
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Serve with cheesy garlic bread for the ultimate dipping experience to enjoy every last drop of the soup.
Vegetable Medley
Mix in a variety of vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
