Pin A comforting, velvety tomato soup infused with fresh basil and served alongside crisp, garlicky sourdough dippers—perfect for cozy evenings. This vegan-friendly meal combines the sweetness of simmered tomatoes with the richness of coconut milk for a truly satisfying bowl.
Pin The key to this soup lies in the balance of acidity from the tomatoes and the aromatic punch of fresh basil. When paired with the crunch of garlic-rubbed sourdough, it transforms a simple soup into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (400 g / 14 oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened canned coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 4 thick slices sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dippers)
- 2 cloves garlic, halved
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent.
- Step 2
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Stir in tomato paste, cook for 1 minute, then add canned tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, oregano, salt, pepper, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes.
- Step 4
- Bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5
- Add coconut milk and fresh basil leaves. Simmer for 5 minutes more.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat. Using an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender in batches), blend soup until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 7
- For the dippers: While soup simmers, preheat oven broiler or grill pan. Brush both sides of sourdough slices with olive oil. Toast until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes per side.
- Step 8
- Rub the warm toasted bread with the cut sides of the garlic cloves. Slice into strips for dipping.
- Step 9
- Serve hot soup garnished with extra basil and accompany with garlic sourdough dippers.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using an immersion blender is the easiest way to achieve a silky consistency right in the pot. If using a standard blender, remember to work in small batches and leave the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape safely. Don't skip the step of rubbing the garlic on the warm sourdough; it’s the secret to that intense aromatic flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For those looking to experiment, substitute coconut milk with oat cream or cashew cream to alter the flavor profile. If you have extra time, roast fresh tomatoes before adding them to the saucepan for a deeper, smokier base. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for added complexity.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish each bowl with a few fresh basil leaves and a crack of fresh black pepper. To complete the meal, pair this soup with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon.
Pin This Vegan Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a reliable favorite that brings high-quality restaurant flavors into your home kitchen. Whether it's a rainy afternoon or a quiet weekday dinner, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use other plant-based milks instead of coconut milk?
Yes, oat or cashew cream can be used for a similarly creamy texture with slightly different flavor nuances.
- → How do I make the sourdough dippers extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, brush both sides of the sourdough slices with olive oil and toast under a broiler or grill pan until golden and firm.
- → Is it possible to adjust the soup’s thickness?
For a thicker consistency, simmer the soup longer before blending or reduce the amount of vegetable broth used.
- → Can fresh tomatoes be used instead of canned?
Absolutely, roasting fresh tomatoes before adding them enhances the soup’s depth and sweetness.
- → What herbs complement the tomato basil flavor best?
Dried oregano and a pinch of smoked paprika blend beautifully with basil, enhancing the overall aroma and taste.