Frozen tomatoes are a pantry staple for many home cooks, offering convenience and year-round access to the vibrant flavors of summer. But can you really make good tomato soup from frozen tomatoes? Absolutely! This guide will walk you through making a rich, flavorful tomato soup, starting with those convenient frozen gems. We'll explore different techniques and answer common questions to help you achieve perfect results every time.
Why Use Frozen Tomatoes for Soup?
Frozen tomatoes are a surprisingly versatile ingredient. They often retain more nutrients than canned tomatoes due to quicker freezing after harvesting. This means your soup will benefit from a higher concentration of vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, they're incredibly convenient; no need to peel or chop!
How to Make Tomato Soup from Frozen Tomatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe uses simple ingredients and techniques to create a delicious, robust tomato soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 (28-ounce) packages frozen tomatoes, slightly thawed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Add the slightly thawed frozen tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer and season: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 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. Work in batches if necessary, leaving some space at the top of the blender to prevent spills.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional). Serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a complete meal.
What are the Best Types of Frozen Tomatoes for Soup?
The best type of frozen tomato for soup really depends on your preferences. Whole peeled tomatoes will give you a chunky soup, while diced or crushed tomatoes will result in a smoother texture. Choose whichever type best suits your desired consistency.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to My Frozen Tomato Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen tomato soup is an excellent base for incorporating other vegetables. Consider adding:
- Carrots: Add diced carrots along with the onions for added sweetness and color.
- Celery: Include chopped celery with the onions for a classic mirepoix base.
- Zucchini or Squash: Add small diced pieces during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
How Do I Thicken My Frozen Tomato Soup?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it in several ways:
- Simmer longer: Reducing the soup for a longer time will naturally thicken it by evaporating some of the liquid.
- Tomato paste: Stir in a tablespoon or two of tomato paste during the simmering process.
- Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this into the simmering soup and cook for a few minutes until thickened.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Frozen Tomato Soup?
Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage; it will typically last for 2-3 months in the freezer.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, you can certainly substitute canned tomatoes. However, remember that canned tomatoes often have added salt, so adjust your seasoning accordingly. Using canned tomatoes might also slightly alter the final texture and flavor profile.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can confidently create a delicious and nutritious tomato soup using frozen tomatoes. Experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to discover your perfect recipe!
