Creamy Tomato Soup Like My Grandma Makes

All right, so, maybe the term 'famous' might be a stretch, but let's just say that with regards to the family gatherings we have-which aren't seldom-she breaks out an enormity pot of the stuff. Quite practically compulsory stuff, seriously. Which begs the question: today I am finally going to leak your secret.to the world! This is waaaaay simpler than it feels like. I even messed it up the first few times I tried it.so don't sweat it if your first attempt isn't perfect! It's all part of the journey. Trust me on this one: this is not your ordinary, run-of-the-mill, store-bought soup. This is soulful, comforting, and guaranteed to make your tastebuds sing. And if I do say so myself, it's probably better than most of what you'd have at a posh restaurant.unless that restaurant is Grandma's house, of course. ????

Why this recipe? Well, because it's simple and delicious, reminding you of cozy family evenings. I mean, who does not like a warm bowl of soup when it is cold outside? Besides, it is just the perfect medium for a slice of crusty bread.if I do say so myself.

What You'll Need:

This is one of those recipes where simplicity reigns supreme. Don't worry about finding any fancy ingredients. More than likely, you have all of these in your kitchen!

• 2 tbsp olive oil (I use a good quality extra virgin olive oil. You can use any oil, though!)
• 1 large onion, chopped (I use yellow onions, but white works just as well. maybe even a little better!)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more! Garlic is life, right?)
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (look for fire-roasted if you like a bit of smoky flavor, totally up to you)
• 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 4 cups vegetable broth (chicken broth would also be tasty!)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half, if you want it a little lighter. I am all about the creaminess, though!)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste (always taste as you go, you'll know what your tastebuds desire!)
• Optional: fresh basil for garnish Because presentation counts! Even in a bowl of humble soup.

Let's Get Cooking (It's Easier Than You Think!)

1. Sauté the aromatics: Place olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven-it really does make a difference, trust me-over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then throw in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic!! That would be sad.and a waste of good garlic.

2. Simmer the soup: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, basil, and oregano in a pot. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook about 15 minutes, occasionally stirring. The longer you simmer, the better the flavor. Try it at 10 minutes if you are impatient like me.

3. **Blend until smooth (optional): If you like your soup super smooth, remove the blender stick and puree it in until smooth. Otherwise, it will be chunky, which is perfect for someone like me!

4. Stir in the cream: Once the soup has simmered, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste, then re-taste. Then, you know, make sure you taste it one last time before serving, just in case you missed something! Heat through gently, but do not boil.

5. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil (if using), and serve with crusty bread for dipping. Seriously, the bread is the best part.or maybe the soup is the best part.I honestly can't decide!

Tips and Tricks from Grandma Elena and Me!

• Don't be afraid to get creative! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little spice, or some shredded carrots for sweetness. This is your soup - make it yours!
• Leftovers? This soup is even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prep. It's also great frozen.Grandma taught me that.
• Use your own homemade vegetable broth in place of store-bought broth for added flavor.
• If too thick, add more broth. If too thin, simmer it a few minutes uncovered until some of the liquid cooks off. I've done both.a lot.
• Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for those busy weeknights when you need something fast and simple.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for added richness! A game-changer!
• And, of course, don't forget bread! You're going to want to be dipping into that beautiful soup.

What's your favorite soup recipe? Let me know in the comments below!