For a canning-friendly tomato soup, start with ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and olive oil, then simmer until tender. Purée with a blender or immersion tool for a smooth base, thin with water or tomato juice, and season with salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar. Use a heavy pot, keep heat steady, and finish with a splash of cream or oil if you like. Properly jar and process for shelf stability, and you’ll have year‑round flavor—more details await.
Ingredients and Quantity
To make canned tomato soup, gather the following ingredients and quantities: 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, 4 cups water or tomato juice, 1 cup chopped onions, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and optional 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or oregano.
You’ll notice two paths: fresh tomatoes versus canned goods. Use fresh tomatoes when you want brightness; canned goods offer consistency. The choice shapes texture, aroma, and flavor balance, yet both yield a smooth, honest base for soup. Keep notes on quantities and adjust to taste. Embrace simplicity, precision, and autonomy in your kitchen.
| Fresh tomatoes | Canned goods |
|---|---|
| Bright flavor | Consistent base |
Preparations
Now that you’ve chosen fresh tomatoes or canned, the next step is to prep them for a smooth soup. In this Preparations stage, focus on preparation techniques that preserve flavor and texture. Begin by washing fresh tomatoes and removing stems; peel or skin only if you prefer a silkier finish. For canned tomatoes, inspect for overflow, choose whole or crushed varieties, and drain if your plan requires a lighter base. Slice or chop to uniform pieces to guarantee even cooking. Season lightly in advance to guide ingredient selection toward balance, without overpowering the tomato’s brightness. Keep peeled garlic and onions handy for controlled sautéing. This approach supports a clean, flexible workflow and a reliable, bright foundation for a satisfying, pantry-friendly soup.
Kitchen tools or Kitchenware Required
Begin with a focused set of tools: a heavy-bottom pot for even heat, a chef’s knife and cutting board, a timer, a blender or immersion blender for smooth texture, and a mesh or fine-strainer for optional final polish.
Kitchen tools you’ll rely on are practical and purpose-driven, aligning with canning equipment and kitchen essentials. You’ll keep workflows clean and organized, avoiding clutter to speed prep and canning accuracy.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heavy-bottom pot | Even heat for simmering tomatoes |
| Knife & board | Prep ingredients efficiently |
| Timer | Track steps precisely |
| Blender/immersion | Achieve silk, homogeneous texture |
| Sieve/strainer | Optional polish for clarity |
These choices keep your process free, efficient, and safe, supporting confident, freedom-seeking canning.
How to Cook
- Heat a heavy-bottom pot over medium heat and add a touch of oil to awaken the aromatics.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, and celery, allowing them to soften without browning.
- Stir in ripe tomatoes and a splash of broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Use steady, controlled motions to break down the tomatoes with a wooden spoon.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
- Simmer until flavors meld for texture and depth.
- Blend partially or fully to your preferred consistency.
- Optionally, emulsify cream or oil for a silkier finish.
- Experiment with flavor combinations such as basil, thyme, or smoked paprika to refine the final character.
How to Serve
To serve tomato soup, start by balancing its final texture and temperature. You’ll want a smooth, not split, mouthfeel and a warmth that invites savoring. Ladle into bowls pre-warmed to prevent rapid cooling, then adjust as needed with a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil for sheen. Consider serving styles that suit the setting: a classic cup with a saucer for casual dining, or a wide-rimmed bowl for a shared bread-dunking experience. Pairing suggestions enhance flavor without overwhelming it, such as a crusty bakery roll, grilled cheese, or a light herb garnish. Keep portions modest to preserve aroma and clarity. Present clean, straightforward, and inviting, focusing on clarity, balance, and personal preference.
Tips
Focus on texture and balance: use a light hand with thickeners so the soup remains silky rather than gloopy, and taste as you go to adjust salt, acid, and sweetness. You’ll keep the texture clean by straining seeds and using a gentle simmer, avoiding over-reduction. When canning techniques matter, work with hot jars and proper headspace to guarantee a safe seal, then label with date for reliability. For storage tips, cool promptly, store in a cool, dark place, and refrigerate any unused portion promptly. Plan for long-term preservation by freezing compact portions in airtight containers. Maintain consistency by batch-testing heat and timing, adjusting herb or spice brightness as needed. Clear notes help you repeat successes and sustain pantry readiness.
Food Value and Benefit
Prepared homemade tomato soup offers valuable nutrition and supports overall well-being. This recipe provides essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet and sustained energy.
Food Value:
- Rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health
- Contains potassium, important for heart health and muscle function
- Provides dietary fiber that aids digestion and promotes gut health
- Hydrating broth helps maintain fluid balance
Benefits of Eating This Recipe:
- Supports sustained energy without blood sugar spikes due to balanced carbohydrates
- Contains lycopene and antioxidants that promote heart health and reduce inflammation
- Enhances immune system function with vitamins and antioxidants
- Easy to pair with lean proteins or whole grains for a well-rounded meal
- Simple, affordable, and renewable option aligning with a health-conscious lifestyle
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Tomato Soup Stay Shelf-Stable After Canning?
Tomato soup shelf life, when properly canned, remains safe for about one year if you store it in a cool, dark place; follow canning best practices, and check seals before consuming.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned Tomato Puree?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but puree them first for smoother consistency; monitor acidity and cook longer. Fresh tomato benefits include vibrant flavor, while tomato soup variations let you add herbs and spice to taste.
What Brands of Jars and Lids Work Best?
You’ll find Ball Mason and Kerr Jars perform best for home canning, with evenly sealing lids; around 95% success in tested batches. You’ll want to inspect, dry, and store them properly for reliable, freedom-loving preservation.
Is Pressure Canning Required for Tomato Soup?
You don’t always need pressure canning for tomato soup; if acidity levels are high enough, water bath canning suffices. However, for low acidity, pressure canning is recommended to guarantee safety and proper shelf stability.
How Do I Reheat Canned Tomato Soup Safely?
Reheating canned tomato soup safely is simple: heat gently on stove, stirring, until steaming hot. Don’t boil. Use safe reheating practices. For best taste, transfer to a pot if stored properly; follow soup storage guidelines.
