To can tomato soup, start with ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a splash of olive oil, then simmer with broth and a touch of sugar for balance. Blend part of the pot for creamy texture, or keep it smooth. Ladle into sterilized jars, leaving headspace, and follow pressure canning times for safety. Store on a cool shelf and label with date. If you keep exploring, you’ll uncover step-by-step tips and flavor tweaks.
Ingredients and Quantity
To make a silky tomato soup, gather fresh or canned tomatoes, olive oil, onions, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper. You’ll measure with confidence, choosing fresh tomatoes for brightness or canned soup for consistency. You then set a simple baseline for flavor, knowing balance is freedom in a pot. Each ingredient is a note in your quest for clarity and taste. This is your kitchen manifesto: practical, delicious, unpretentious.
| Row 1 | Row 2 | Row 3 |
|---|---|---|
| fresh tomatoes | olive oil | salt |
| onions | garlic | pepper |
Your choices create depth, accessibility, and a comforting, flavorful result.
Preparations
Once you have your ingredients prepped, start by heating a splash of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. You’ll sweat onions, garlic, and herbs until fragrant, not browned—this is ingredient preparation that builds a clean base. Add tomatoes and a pinch of salt, stirring to release natural sweetness and tang. Taste, adjust acidity with a splash of lemon if needed, and layer flavor gradually for flavor enhancement throughout simmering. If you like depth, fold in roasted peppers or a whisper of smoked paprika. Maintain steady heat so peppers soften and mingle, not burn. Keep the texture bright and liquid-y enough to coat starches later, then taste again and tune seasoning before canning.
Kitchen tools or Kitchenware Required
A few essential tools will keep this tomato soup smooth and simple: a sturdy pot with a wide base for even simmering, a sharp chef’s knife for quick prep, and a cutting board that’s easy to clean.
Having the right gear makes canning easier and more enjoyable. You’ll want canning jars ready for storage and measuring cups to guarantee precise additions. A ladle helps portion, and tongs keep heat safe as you handle hot jars. A timer is your accountability partner, and a wide-mouth funnel speeds jar filling.
| Tool | Benefit |
|---|---|
| canning jars | safe, sealed storage |
| measuring cups | precise, repeatable measurements |
How to Cook
- Sauté onions and garlic in a splash of olive oil until they shimmer and soften.
- Add canned tomatoes, broth, and a pinch of salt.
- Simmer, stirring often, until flavors meld and aromas develop.
- For a creamy texture, blend part of the soup and reintroduce it, or puree fully for a smooth finish.
- To brighten the pot, add a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil at the end.
- Customize the soup by adding roasted peppers, a pinch of chili, or fresh herbs to your taste.
- Remember key cooking techniques: simmer gently, season boldly, and trust your palate.
- Use this recipe as a canvas for creating hearty, comforting flavors.
How to Serve
To serve tomato soup at its best, ladle hot, comforting bowls into warmed dishes and set out a small pitcher of cream or a drizzle of olive oil for finishing. You’ll taste how temperature, texture, and a final flourish elevate every spoonful. Embrace simple serving suggestions that invite conversation and curiosity, and keep garnish ideas on the table for customization.
To serve tomato soup at its best, ladle hot bowls into warmed dishes and finish with cream or olive oil for a elevating, communal bite.
- Pair with crusty bread or a grilled cheese mini‑sandwich for a cozy, freedom‑inspired pairing.
- Offer a splash of cream, yogurt, or olive oil as finishing touches to tailor richness.
- Present with fresh herbs, a pinch of pepper, and roasted seeds for color and texture.
Keep it clear, appetizing, and practical, so every bowl invites delight.
Tips
Getting the most flavor from tomato soup starts with smart tweaks you can do in a snap. In this tips section, you’ll learn practical tricks to boost taste without complicating canning. Start with using ripe tomatoes for natural sweetness, then add a touch of onion, garlic, or a small carrot for depth. Balance acidity with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar when canning, following safe guidelines. For flavor enhancements, consider a brief simmer with fresh herbs like basil or thyme before canning, then remove before sealing to keep the aroma bright. Puree to a smooth texture if you prefer, or leave it rustic for substance. Label jars clearly, store, and enjoy vibrant, confident results.
Food Value and Benefit
Tomato soup is a nutrient-packed, comforting dish that fits seamlessly into both busy weeknights and relaxing weekend meals. This recipe highlights the natural goodness of whole tomatoes combined with light seasoning to deliver a flavorful and healthful experience.
Tomato soup blends simple ingredients into a comforting, weeknight-friendly dish.
Benefits of eating this tomato soup include:
- Rich source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes skin health.
- High in Potassium, supporting heart function and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
- Contains Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports overall heart health.
- Provides dietary fiber that aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Low in calories and fat, making it a heart-healthy, weight-conscious choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can Canned Tomato Soup Be Stored Safely?
Ever wonder how long your canned tomato soup stays good? It lasts about 1 to 2 years unopened; once opened, refrigerate 3–4 days. Check shelf life and storage conditions, discard if bulging, leaking, or off-smelling.
Do I Need Pressure Canning for Tomatoes-Based Soup?
Yes, you typically need pressure canning for tomato-based soups to guarantee safety; choose canning methods suited for low-acid foods, and consider tomato varieties with higher acidity. Then follow tested recipes for best flavor and long storage.
Can I Adjust Acidity for Pressure Canning Safety?
Acidity levels affect safety; you can’t arbitrarily adjust them. Follow tested safety guidelines, use tested recipes, and don’t under- or over- acidify. I trust you’ll respect proper pressure canning standards for home canning success.
Are There Low-Sodium or Low-Sugar Canning Options?
Yes, there are low-sodium options and sugar alternatives you can use; choose low sodium options and spoon in sugar alternatives to taste. You’ll preserve flavor while staying mindful, enjoying freedom and confidence in safe, delicious canning outcomes.
Can I Reuse Jars and Lids After Canning Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can reuse jars and lids after canning tomato soup, but check jar sterilization and lid integrity first—discard any cracks or deformed rings. If in doubt, store new lids for a secure seal and safe preservation.
