Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
It is a rich, comforting homemade soup that combines canned fire-roasted tomatoes with roasted vegetable stock and fresh herbs for a gourmet flavor.
Is this soup recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses vegetable stock and dairy-based cream.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the heavy whipping cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for two 14.5-ounce cans of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained, for the best smoky flavor.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but for the best results, you should roast the fresh tomatoes first to achieve a similar depth of flavor as fire-roasted canned tomatoes.
What is roasted vegetable stock?
Roasted vegetable stock is made from vegetables that have been browned before simmering, providing a deeper and more savory base than standard vegetable broth.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Is this soup spicy?
It has a slight warmth due to the 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, but you can adjust this amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Why is sugar added to the recipe?
A small amount of sugar is used to balance the natural acidity of the fire-roasted tomatoes.
Can I omit the sugar?
Yes, if you prefer a more acidic or tart soup, you can leave the sugar out.
Which herbs are recommended for this soup?
You can use fresh basil for a classic Italian taste or fresh cilantro for a vibrant Southwest flair.
How do I blend the soup safely?
Allow the soup to cool for about 15 minutes after simmering, then blend in batches to avoid pressure buildup in the blender.
Can I use an immersion blender?
Yes, an immersion blender can be used directly in the saucepan to blend the soup until smooth.
What should I serve with Savory Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
It pairs excellently with crusty artisan bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 180 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 9 grams of fat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (vegetables, stock, cream, and herbs), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How long does it take to make this soup?
The soup can be prepared and cooked in under an hour, including prep, simmering, and blending time.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it. For the best texture, it is recommended to freeze the soup before adding the heavy whipping cream.
Can I use milk instead of heavy whipping cream?
You can, but the soup will be less creamy and have a thinner consistency than if you use heavy whipping cream.
How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
What are the primary macronutrients in a serving?
Each serving has 17.5g of carbohydrates, 9g of fat, and 2.5g of protein.
Can I add more garlic?
Certainly! You can increase the number of garlic cloves if you prefer a stronger garlic profile.
Do I need to drain the tomatoes?
No, do not drain the tomatoes; the juice in the cans provides essential flavor and liquid for the soup.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable stock?
Yes, chicken broth or stock can be used as a substitute if you do not require the dish to be vegetarian.
What is the preparation for the onion?
The recipe requires one large onion to be chopped before sautรฉing in olive oil.
When do I add the fresh herbs?
One tablespoon is added during the simmering stage, and the remaining tablespoon is stirred in right before serving.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is considered an easy recipe that uses simple techniques like sautรฉing, simmering, and blending.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can sautรฉ carrots or celery with the onions for extra depth and nutrients before adding the tomatoes.