What To Know
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the flavors have blended.
- Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for a few more minutes to heat through.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Tomato soup, a comforting classic, is often associated with its creamy richness. But what if you’re vegan or lactose-intolerant? Don’t worry, you can still indulge in this culinary delight with our comprehensive guide on how to make tomato soup vegan.
Ingredients for a Perfect Vegan Tomato Soup
- 1 large can (28 ounces) of whole tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons vegetable broth powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegan cream (made from soy, almond, or cashew)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Tomato Soup
1. Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add the Tomatoes: Pour the contents of the whole tomatoes into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces.
3. Season the Soup: Stir in vegetable broth powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the flavors have blended.
4. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
5. Add the Vegan Cream: Stir in the vegan cream to add richness and creaminess.
6. Reheat and Serve: Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for a few more minutes to heat through. Serve warm with your favorite vegan bread or crackers.
Tips for Enhancing Your Vegan Tomato Soup
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste. Canned whole tomatoes are a convenient option, but fresh tomatoes can also be used.
- Add Other Veggies: Enhance the flavor of your soup by adding chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
- Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Serve with Toppings: Elevate your soup with toppings such as chopped basil, grated vegan cheese, or croutons.
Variations on Vegan Tomato Soup
- Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup: Use silken tofu or vegan sour cream instead of vegan cream for a thicker, creamier soup.
- Spicy Vegan Tomato Soup: Add a dash of chili powder or chopped jalapeños to give your soup a kick.
- Garden-Fresh Vegan Tomato Soup: Use fresh, seasonal tomatoes when they are at their peak for an explosion of flavor.
Benefits of Vegan Tomato Soup
- Nutrient-Rich: Tomatoes are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants.
- Low-Calorie: A cup of vegan tomato soup typically contains around 100 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Heart-Healthy: The lycopene in tomatoes has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease.
- Versatile: Vegan tomato soup can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just peel, seed, and chop them before adding them to the soup.
2. What vegan cream can I use?
You can use soy cream, almond cream, or cashew cream.
3. How can I make my soup thicker?
You can add cornstarch or flour to thicken the soup.
4. Can I freeze vegan tomato soup?
Yes, you can freeze vegan tomato soup for up to 3 months.
5. What can I serve with vegan tomato soup?
You can serve vegan tomato soup with bread, crackers, or a salad.
