Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Soup
Are you in search of a comforting and delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this slow cooker tomato basil soup recipe.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can savor a warm and flavorful bowl of soup that will hit the spot. Let your slow cooker do all the work as the flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil blend together into a delightful and comforting dish.
Origins
Tracing the roots of slow cooker tomato basil soup takes us back to the 18th century, when tomatoes were first brought to Europe from the Americas.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that the combination of tomatoes and basil began to gain popularity.
The slow cooker, commonly known as a Crock-Pot, was popularized in the 1970s and people soon began experimenting with different soup recipes.
The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and the convenience of slow cooking made for a delicious and comforting soup, beloved by many today.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of vegetable broth
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
Instructions
To make the slow cooker tomato basil soup, begin by sautéing the onions and garlic in a pan until they become translucent.
Then, transfer the sautéed onions and garlic into the slow cooker.
After that, add in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and tomato paste, stirring until well combined.
Finally, season the mixture with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the flavors meld together.
You’ll be left with a hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy!
Tips for Cooking
Sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent, then transfer them into the slow cooker.
Here are some tricks to make your slow cooker tomato basil soup even better:
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Use fresh ingredients: Choosing fresh tomatoes and basil will give your soup a vibrant and robust flavor.
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Chop your vegetables evenly: This will ensure that they cook evenly and create a well-balanced soup.
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Don’t skimp on the seasonings: Add a generous amount of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the soup.
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Let it simmer: Cooking the soup on low heat for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to come together.
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Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend some of the ingredients using an immersion blender or food processor.
Final Thoughts
To create a delicious tomato basil soup, it’s essential to consider certain tips to perfect the flavors and texture.
Taste and adjust the seasonings before serving to ensure the soup has the right balance of sweetness from the tomatoes and the freshness of the basil.
If you want a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Or, if you prefer a chunkier soup, simply skip this step.
Don’t forget to garnish your soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil for added flavor.
With these final touches, your slow cooker tomato basil soup will be a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze the Leftover Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes, you can certainly freeze the leftover tomato basil soup. Storing it in airtight containers or freezer bags will help keep its flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw and reheat it.
Can I Substitute Dried Basil for Fresh Basil in This Recipe?
Yes, it is possible to replace fresh basil with dried basil in this recipe. Bear in mind that the flavor of dried basil is more intense, so you may need to adjust the quantity.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
To spice up the soup, try adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go and adjust the amount to suit your preference.
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Chicken Broth in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth in this recipe. The flavor will be different, but the soup should still be tasty.
Can I Add Meat to This Tomato Basil Soup, Such as Chicken or Sausage?
Yes, you can definitely add meat to this tomato basil soup. Chicken or sausage could be excellent additions. Make sure to cook the meat beforehand and then add it to the soup. Enjoy!
