Image by Jenn Kosar

Tomato soup

Ah, tomato soup. Such an illustrious dish, one that has been enamoredly enjoyed by humans for many years now. It's no wonder why it's become a beloved staple of comfort food - its warmth, its simplistic yet full flavor, and its comforting properties make it an ideal lunchtime repast on a gloomy day.

Tomato soup


What makes tomato soup so intriguing is the complexity of flavors that can be found within it despite its rather minimal ingredients. The sweet-tart taste of tomatoes mixed with the warm notes of onions, garlic, and herbs allows for a myriad of culinary possibilities. A dollop of cream adds a decadent richness to the mix, while a sprinkling of spices such as paprika, oregano, and thyme bring a subtle yet vibrant kick of flavor.

The versatility of tomato soup also goes hand-in-hand with its convenience. Whether it is cooked from scratch or opened from a can, this dish is a reliable go-to for quick and easy nourishment. Plus, the leftovers freeze very well, making it a practical option for busy households.

To me, the beauty of tomato soup lies in its ability to transform. Whether you want a thick and creamy variation or a lighter broth-based one, there are loads of recipes to delight your palate. Try adding some quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein and nutrients, or swap out the cream for coconut milk for a vegan version. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to customize this soup however you’d like.

Tomato soup is like a warm hug in a bowl – one that you can endlessly experiment with and never get tired of!

The origin of Tomato soup

Ah, tomato soup. Is there anything as comforting and delicious? Its origins may come as a surprise to many; tomato soup was not invented in the United States, but rather hails from the early 1700s England. The soup is believed to have been created by a Mrs. Rundell, the wife of an English cleric named Reverend Rundell.

Mrs. Rundell had no formal culinary training, but she was quite fond of experimenting in the kitchen. Drawing from her own experiences with cooking and the local ingredients she had at hand, Mrs. Rundell crafted something special - a creamy tomato soup that delighted the taste buds of all who tried it. Using tomatoes, onions, and seasonings such as cloves, nutmeg, and mace, she blended a medley of flavors into a savory and harmonious soup.

From the time that Mrs. Rundell’s tomato soup first graced dinner tables, it became wildly popular and spread to many parts of the world, eventually becoming a staple on restaurant menus in America. While the original recipe has been adapted throughout the years, the classic flavors of Mrs. Rundell’s invention are still enjoyed today. There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of fragrant tomato soup to provide warmth and succor on a chilly day.

In this day and age of copycatting and processed food, it’s refreshing to reflect on the ingenuity of Mrs. Rundell, who developed a dish from scratch whose beguiling flavor has made it a beloved classic for centuries. We owe her a tremendous debt of gratitude for our delicious modern take on her timeless formula.

FAQs about Tomato soup

How do you make tomato soup taste better?

1. Add a pinch of sugar or a dash of honey.
2. Add some Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, or croutons for extra flavor and texture.
3. Add fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or thyme.
4. Add some diced carrots, celery, onions, or peppers.
5. Add some cream or a splash of milk for a creamy texture.
6. Add a swirl of pesto or hot sauce for extra flavor.
7. Add a dollop of sour cream, yogurt, or cream cheese to the top.


Is tomato soup a healthy soup?

It can be. Tomato soup is typically low in fat and calories, and it can provide several important vitamins and minerals. However, different brands of tomato soup can vary widely in terms of nutritional content, so it's best to read the label before purchasing. Also, many canned and packaged tomato soups contain added sugar and sodium, so look for lower-sodium varieties if possible.


What can I add to tomato soup?

- Chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers
- Dried herbs such as oregano, basil, or thyme
- Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce
- A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Sauteed mushrooms
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grilled cheese croutons
- A splash of white wine
- Cooked chopped bacon or pancetta
- Grated Parmesan
- Minced garlic or onion


Why should you not boil tomato soup?

Boiling tomato soup can cause the tomatoes to become overcooked and may produce an unpleasant texture. In addition, the flavor can be diminished or destroyed if the the heat is too intense. Simmering the soup yields a more flavorful and smoother texture.


Types of Tomato soup

Ah, the tantalizing tomato soup—a beloved cuisine of many cultures, varying vastly in its recipes and, in turn, its taste. From the dramatic creamy tomato soup to the textured vegetable-infused variety, this delectable dish has a seemingly endless range of hearty and flavorful variations.

To start, there's the classic creamy tomato soup—a dependable and comforting choice for any time of year. This type typically starts with butter and onions, cooked until softened and slightly golden. Next, diced or crushed tomatoes are added along with broth, herbs, sugar, and flour, and allowed to simmer until richly blended and bubbling. The last step is to add cream, milk, or half-and-half and cook until thickened. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream can make all the difference in elevating this simple recipe to a blissful bowl of tomato deliciousness.

For a garden-fresh twist on traditional tomato soup, consider trying a vegetable-infused version. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery until softened, then adding garlic, diced tomatoes and seasonings. After cooking for a few minutes more, pour in chicken or vegetable broth and simmer until vegetables are fork-tender. For an even heartier soup, add potatoes, corn, or even beans to your mix. Once everything is cooked through, top with a dollop of plain yogurt and serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

For a spicy kick, look no further than a fiery fire-roasted tomato soup. Start by roasting diced tomatoes, garlic, onions and jalapeno peppers in a baking sheet until they’re nicely charred. Carefully transfer the mixture to a saucepan and warm over low heat before adding a heaping dollop of butter. Once melted, stir in masa harina to thicken and add flavor. Add chicken or vegetable broth, black beans and chili powder, adjust seasoning to your liking, and simmer for fifteen minutes. Serve topped with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cilantro, and of course, chunks of roasted peppers.

The beauty of tomato soup is its versatility. Regardless of your preference, from classic creamy to chunky vegetable-infused varieties, you’ll be sure to find a tomato soup that satisfies your taste buds. With a little experimentation, you can craft a savory and soul-warming soup that’s sure to become your go-to comfort food. Enjoy!