slow cooker creamy tomato soup

slow cooker creamy tomato soup


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slow cooker creamy tomato soup

Slow cooker creamy tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy weekend lunch. This recipe elevates the classic tomato soup experience with a luxuriously creamy texture and a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. Forget about canned soup; this homemade version is surprisingly simple to make and infinitely more delicious. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the tomatoes to simmer gently and meld into a rich, flavorful base.

What Makes This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because it focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve a truly exceptional flavor profile. We're not just talking about canned tomatoes here; we're utilizing the sweetness of fresh tomatoes (or high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes if fresh aren't available) combined with aromatic vegetables and herbs. The slow cooking process intensifies these flavors, creating a depth you won't find in store-bought versions. The addition of cream at the end adds a beautiful richness without overpowering the delicate tomato taste.

Ingredients You'll Need:

  • 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (or 2 (28-ounce) cans of San Marzano tomatoes)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): For an even richer flavor, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil until softened before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the overall depth of flavor.

  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped tomatoes, sautéed vegetables (if doing the optional step), garlic, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

  3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the tomatoes are completely softened and the flavors have melded.

  4. Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.

  5. Stir in Cream: Return the blended soup (or unblended soup) to the slow cooker. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Heat through gently. Do not boil.

  6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can absolutely use canned tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their rich flavor and low acidity. If using canned, simply drain them before adding them to the slow cooker.

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water during the last hour of cooking.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

What kind of bread pairs well with this soup?

Crusty bread, grilled cheese, or even a simple buttered baguette are all excellent accompaniments to this creamy tomato soup.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Add them along with the onions, carrots, and celery.

This slow cooker creamy tomato soup recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and slow cooking. The result is a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!