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The Ultimate Recipe for a Cozy Comforting Soup

As the weather cools and the days shorten, there's nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty soup to brighten your day. Soups have long been a staple of home cooking, offering the perfect combination of flavor, nutrition, and warmth. Whether you're curling up on the couch or serving a gathering of friends and family, a homemade soup can transform any meal into something special.

One of the best things about soups is their versatility. You can create them with almost any combination of ingredients, from simple vegetable broths to rich, creamy options. Today, I'm sharing one of my all-time favorite recipes for a cozy, comforting soup that will become a regular in your kitchen rotation.

This classic tomato and basil soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. It's easy to make, full of fresh flavors, and just the thing to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients:

  • 6 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier texture)
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

  2. Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, along with the dried oregano and sugar. Stir well and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.

  3. Add the broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 20 minutes. The tomatoes should be soft and the flavors well melded together.

  4. Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Once blended, return the soup to the pot.

  5. Finish with cream and basil: Stir in the heavy cream, if using, to create a creamy, velvety texture. Add the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with additional basil leaves if desired, and serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side.

This tomato and basil soup is everything you want in a cozy fall dish—rich, savory, and full of fresh, seasonal flavors. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes, combined with the aromatic basil, creates a depth of flavor that's irresistible. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a comforting bowl of warmth.

For those who prefer a little more texture, you can leave the soup slightly chunky or top it with some croutons or a sprinkle of parmesan. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort combo, this recipe is sure to please.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple yet satisfying it is. You don't need any fancy ingredients or complex techniques, just fresh, quality produce and a bit of time to let the flavors develop. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a family, or hosting a cozy dinner party, this soup will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection.

So, next time you're craving something warm and comforting, give this tomato and basil soup a try. It's the perfect way to embrace the cozy season and enjoy a homemade meal that’ll leave you feeling full, satisfied, and oh-so-happy.

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