If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious bowl of tomato soup that can take you straight to nostalgia lane, you’re in the right place. This Pacific Foods Tomato Soup recipe delivers just that-rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal dish to warm your heart, especially on those chilly days. Tomato soup is one of those classic comfort foods that never fails to hit the spot. Whether you’re pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich or enjoying it on its own, it’s a meal that soothes the soul.
What sets this particular recipe apart is the balance of savory sweetness, rich creaminess, and the deep, complex flavors that come from using quality ingredients. Pacific Foods’ tomato soup base is often known for its wholesome and natural flavors, and with the right touch, you can elevate it even further. This recipe offers you the perfect combination of simplicity and taste, without requiring any culinary expertise-just a few fresh ingredients, some patience, and you’ll be enjoying a homemade masterpiece.
So, let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make the perfect tomato soup from scratch, packed with warmth and flavor!
Pacific Foods Tomato Soup Recipe
Making this recipe is all about creating a harmonious blend of ingredients that come together to deliver that perfect bowl of comfort. Here’s everything you need to know:
Ingredients Needed
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Pacific Foods Organic Tomato Soup (1 Carton Or 32 Oz)
- The star ingredient. Pacific Foods’ soup serves as a solid foundation. It’s organic, rich, and full of the natural sweetness of tomatoes.
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Olive Oil (2 Tablespoons)
- Adds a silky richness and depth of flavor to the soup base. The slight fruitiness from olive oil works beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes.
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Garlic (2 Cloves, Minced)
- Garlic is an essential aromatic ingredient. It infuses the soup with its fragrant, savory punch that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
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Onion (1 Medium, Finely Chopped)
- Adds a natural sweetness and a touch of earthiness. Cooking the onions until soft ensures they meld seamlessly into the soup.
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Vegetable Broth (1 Cup)
- Enhances the soup’s flavor with a savory base. If you’re going for a more robust flavor, you can use chicken broth instead, but vegetable broth keeps it light and vegetarian.
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Heavy Cream (½ Cup)
- Adds the luxurious creaminess that elevates the soup. It makes the texture smooth and velvety, making each spoonful feel like a cozy hug.
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Fresh Basil (A Handful, Chopped)
- The vibrant, slightly peppery flavor of basil brings freshness to the soup. Add it just before serving for the best impact.
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Salt And Pepper (To Taste)
- Essential to bring balance to the flavors. Adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste.
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Sugar (1 Teaspoon, Optional)
- If your tomatoes have a tangier bite, a pinch of sugar can balance out the acidity and sweetness in the soup.
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by finely chopping your onion and mincing the garlic. Have your fresh basil ready and your vegetable broth measured out.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, around 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step forms the savory base of your soup.
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Add The Soup Base
- Pour in the Pacific Foods Organic Tomato Soup and the vegetable broth. Stir the mixture to combine, and bring it to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Blend It Up
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to purée the soup until silky. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or blend only half of it.
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Finish With Cream And Seasoning
- Once your soup has reached the desired texture, stir in the heavy cream. Add salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) to taste. Taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Simmer for a few more minutes.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped basil. Serve hot with a side of grilled cheese for that classic pairing.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to appreciating the soup’s complex flavor profile:
- Pacific Foods Organic Tomato Soup: The core of the dish. Made with ripe organic tomatoes, this soup base is slightly tangy and naturally sweet, setting the tone for the dish. Plus, it’s a great base for making a homemade soup without starting from scratch.
- Olive Oil: Beyond just adding fat, olive oil provides a touch of richness and a smooth texture. The good fats also help carry the flavors of garlic and onion throughout the soup.
- Garlic and Onion: These two humble ingredients are the foundation of nearly all savory dishes. When sautéed, they release their essential oils, creating an aromatic base that deepens the flavor of the tomatoes.
- Heavy Cream: The cream transforms a simple soup into a luscious experience, mellowing the acidity of the tomatoes and adding a silky texture that makes every spoonful feel decadent.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh herbs are key to adding brightness and freshness. Basil brings a touch of peppery heat that balances the soup’s richness and gives it a refreshing finish.
Expert Tips
- Roasting the Garlic and Onion: For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, roast the garlic and onion in the oven before adding them to the soup. It will bring out a sweeter, almost smoky note to the dish.
- Add a Dash of Spice: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The spiciness will elevate the tomato flavor and give the soup a more complex profile.
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a velvety texture, you can blend the entire soup. For a chunkier soup, just blend a portion and leave some of the soup as is for a bit of texture.
- Make it Ahead: Tomato soup only gets better with time. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish that can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat and enjoy!
Recipe Variations
- Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative to make this soup vegan-friendly. Use vegetable broth to ensure it stays plant-based.
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add fresh chilies, chili powder, or a dollop of harissa to give your soup a spicy kick. You can also toss in a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile.
- Tomato Basil Bisque: Make it a bit more luxurious by adding a bit more cream and a splash of white wine while cooking the soup. This adds depth and richness, turning it into a bisque.
- Add Veggies: To make it a heartier meal, throw in some diced carrots, celery, or zucchini with the onions to give the soup more substance and nutrients.
- Cheesy Tomato Soup: Stir in shredded cheese, like mozzarella or Parmesan, once the soup has been blended. Let it melt into the soup for an extra creamy and cheesy twist.
Final Words
Tomato soup is undeniably one of the easiest and most satisfying dishes to prepare. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a meal to share with loved ones, this Pacific Foods Tomato Soup recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion. The addition of fresh ingredients like garlic, basil, and heavy cream takes it from basic to extraordinary, providing layers of flavor that hit all the right notes.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For The Pacific Foods Tomato Soup Recipe?
The ingredients typically include Pacific Foods Organic Tomato Soup, olive oil, garlic, onions, fresh basil, salt, pepper, and optional additions like cream or croutons.
How Can I Enhance The Flavor Of Pacific Foods Tomato Soup?
You can enhance the flavor by adding roasted garlic, a splash of balsamic vinegar, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory touch.
Can I Make The Pacific Foods Tomato Soup Recipe Vegan?
Yes, the Pacific Foods tomato soup recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream instead of traditional cream.
How Do I Make The Pacific Foods Tomato Soup Thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can blend in some cooked potatoes, carrots, or even a little bit of cornstarch mixed with water. Alternatively, let the soup simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables To Pacific Foods Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Simply sauté them with onions and garlic before adding the soup for a richer, more complex flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare Pacific Foods Tomato Soup?
Preparing the Pacific Foods tomato soup takes about 10 to 15 minutes, including time for sautéing aromatics and warming the soup. If you add other ingredients, it may take a little longer.
Is It Possible To Freeze Leftover Pacific Foods Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover tomato soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and store it in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead Of Canned For The Soup?
Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes, though the flavor may differ slightly. Use about 6 to 8 medium tomatoes for a similar consistency, and cook them down until soft before blending into the soup.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Pacific Foods Tomato Soup?
Pacific Foods tomato soup is often served with grilled cheese sandwiches, but you can also pair it with croutons, a drizzle of cream, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.
Can I Make The Soup Spicier?
Yes, you can make the soup spicier by adding red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or finely chopped jalapeños. Adjust the spice level to your personal preference.