Warm up your soul with a bowl of homemade Slow Cooker Tomato Soup. This recipe combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy goodness, making it a perfect dish for chilly days or a cozy dinner. With minimal prep time and the ease of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a rich and flavorful soup that rivals your favorite restaurant’s version. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time in the slow cooker is 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g protein. This is based on the inclusion of heavy cream; using vegetable broth only will lower the calorie content.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Prepare all ingredients: dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrot.
- In the slow cooker, combine crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrot, and vegetable broth.
- Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Stir the ingredients to blend them well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade tomato soup!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute crushed tomatoes with fresh tomatoes (about 2 lbs) or use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor. For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or omit it entirely.
Serving and Pairings
This tomato soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave out the cream if freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the sautéing step if you want deeper flavors.
- Be careful not to over-season; you can always add more later.
- Ensure you use ripe tomatoes or good-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste.
- Don’t blend the soup too long, or it may become too thin.
- Watch the cooking time; overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Try adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for a unique twist.
- Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2 lbs of ripe tomatoes will work well. Just core and chop them before adding to the slow cooker.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the heavy cream and use vegetable broth. You can also add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this Slow Cooker Tomato Soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Tomato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious dish that warms your heart and home. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Slow Cooker Tomato Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cans 28 oz each crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot peeled and chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream optional
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrot.
- In the slow cooker, combine crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrot, and vegetable broth.
- Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Stir the ingredients to blend them well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade tomato soup!
