Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup is a timeless and comforting dish that showcases the delightful simplicity of ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a harmonious blend of other ingredients. Known for her elegance in the kitchen and ability to turn everyday ingredients into gourmet experiences, Mary Berry’s soup is a beautiful representation of how the right combination of fresh, quality ingredients can create a flavorful and hearty meal.
At its core, this soup is a vibrant celebration of tomatoes-fresh or canned-infused with the aromatic fragrance of basil. The soup offers a balance of sweet and tangy notes, with the tomatoes providing a rich base, while the basil adds a touch of herbal brightness that elevates the flavor. The addition of onions, garlic, and a splash of cream further enhance the soup’s depth, creating a silky texture that is both luxurious and comforting.
Ideal as a starter or a light meal, Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup has earned its place as a favorite in many kitchens. Whether enjoyed during the colder months or as a refreshing dish in the summer, its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Mary Berry’s Tomato And Basil Soup Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To recreate Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup, you’ll need a handful of key ingredients. The list is refreshingly simple, but each component contributes to the soup’s wholesome flavor profile:
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Fresh Tomatoes (or Canned Tomatoes)
The star of the soup, ripe tomatoes provide the rich, slightly tangy base for the soup. You can opt for fresh tomatoes if they are in season, but canned whole tomatoes are a great substitute, especially in winter when fresh tomatoes may not be as flavorful.
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Onion
A medium-sized onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor. It’s sautéed to soften and bring out its natural sweetness, which balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
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Garlic
Garlic is sautéed along with the onion to infuse the soup with its unmistakable aromatic flavor. It gives the soup a rich, savory base.
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Fresh Basil Leaves
Basil is the herb that truly defines this dish. The fresh leaves add a fragrant, slightly peppery taste that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
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Olive Oil
For sautéing the onions and garlic, olive oil adds a rich, slightly fruity undertone to the soup.
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Vegetable Or Chicken Stock
A good quality vegetable or chicken stock is essential to give the soup depth and a savory base. Stock infuses the soup with richness, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
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Salt And Pepper
These are fundamental for seasoning, helping to elevate the flavors of the tomatoes and basil. Adjust the seasoning to your taste as you go.
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Sugar (optional)
Sometimes a pinch of sugar is added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. This is optional, depending on how sweet or tangy you prefer the soup to be.
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Double Cream (optional)
A small amount of double cream (heavy cream) can be added at the end for a luxurious, velvety texture and to soften the tanginess of the tomatoes. It’s not necessary for a delicious soup, but it certainly makes it richer and more indulgent.
Equipment Needed
While the ingredients are simple, having the right equipment will ensure that the process is smooth and the result is superb. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Large Saucepan Or Soup Pot
You’ll need a large pot to cook the soup. It should have enough space to sauté the vegetables and allow for plenty of room for the liquid to simmer.
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Sharp Knife And Chopping Board
A good, sharp knife is essential for chopping the onions, garlic, and basil. The chopping board gives you a stable surface to work on and makes the prep process faster and safer.
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Ladle
Once the soup is ready, a ladle makes it easy to serve without splashing.
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Blender Or Hand Blender (Immersion Blender)
After cooking the soup, it needs to be blended to achieve a smooth texture. You can use a regular blender or, even better, an immersion blender (also known as a hand blender), which allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot, saving time and minimizing cleanup.
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Sieve (optional)
For an extra-smooth texture, you can pass the blended soup through a fine sieve to remove any remaining seeds or skin from the tomatoes.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Tomato And Basil Soup
The process of making Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup is straightforward and not overly time-consuming. Here’s how you can create this delicious soup from scratch:
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Prepare The Vegetables
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Crush or finely chop the garlic cloves, and set both aside. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, score an X at the base of each one, and briefly blanch them in boiling water. Once they’ve cooled, peel off the skin and chop them up. If using canned tomatoes, you can skip this step.
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Sauté The Onions And Garlic
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.
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Add The Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pan. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes, mashing them down with the back of a spoon to release their juices and break them up.
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Simmer The Soup
Pour in the stock, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Blend The Soup
Once the soup has simmered and thickened slightly, remove it from the heat. Add the fresh basil leaves and stir them in. Then, using your hand blender (or a regular blender), blend the soup until it’s smooth and velvety. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just part of the soup or use a sieve to strain out the solids.
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Finish The Soup
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a creamier finish, stir in a small amount of double cream. Give it a final stir to combine, and then it’s ready to serve!
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Serve And Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of cream, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Tips And Tricks
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Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes For Maximum Flavor
If you’re making this soup in the summer, take advantage of ripe, seasonal tomatoes. They’ll provide the best flavor and natural sweetness. For year-round consistency, quality canned tomatoes are a great alternative.
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Adjust The Texture
For a chunkier soup, you can blend only half of the mixture. Alternatively, if you prefer an ultra-smooth soup, pass the blended mixture through a fine sieve to remove seeds and skins for an even silkier texture.
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Enhance The Flavors
A dash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add extra depth to the soup. You can also experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to create a unique flavor profile.
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Make Ahead And Freeze
This soup can be made in advance and frozen for later. Just store it in an airtight container, and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, be sure to stir it well to ensure a smooth consistency.
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Top With Croutons Or Cheese
Adding a handful of crispy croutons or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top makes for a lovely finishing touch and adds a satisfying crunch to the smooth soup.
Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a delightful and simple dish that combines the best of fresh, flavorful ingredients with easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a solo meal, this soup offers a nourishing, satisfying experience. The balance of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy undertones makes it a perfect choice for any time of the year. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s both healthy and heartwarming, and one that brings joy to the table every time you make it.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Tomato And Basil Soup
Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup is a quintessential comfort food that’s beloved for its smooth texture, fresh flavors, and simplicity. But as much as the original recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are countless ways to customize and elevate this soup to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Whether you want a creamier, spicier, or more robust version, here are some easy variations to try:
1. Creamy Tomato And Basil Soup
For a richer and more indulgent soup, simply add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche towards the end of cooking. The cream will make the soup velvety and smooth, turning it into a luxurious dish. If you’re watching your calories, you can substitute the cream with coconut milk or oat cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.
2. Spicy Tomato And Basil Soup
For those who like a little heat, adding chili or cayenne pepper can give your soup an exciting kick. You could also stir in some fresh red chilies or jalapeños when sautéing the onions for an extra spicy depth. Alternatively, for a milder spice, smoked paprika can give the soup a warm, smoky undertone without overpowering the delicate basil flavors.
3. Roasted Tomato And Basil Soup
To deepen the flavors and add a hint of smokiness, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the pot. Cut the tomatoes in half, drizzle them with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar, then roast them in the oven until they caramelize and develop a rich flavor. This variation results in a more intense tomato flavor that’s perfect for those who prefer a fuller taste.
4. Tomato And Basil Soup With Cheese
If you’re a fan of the classic pairing of tomato and cheese, adding a bit of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta into the soup can introduce a lovely salty, tangy contrast. You could also sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving and let it melt slightly for a gooey, satisfying touch. For a more indulgent twist, serve the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side.
5. Tomato And Basil Soup With Bacon Or Sausage
For a heartier, meaty version of the soup, add crispy bacon bits or browned sausage to the pot. Bacon will give the soup a smoky crunch, while sausage can add a savory richness. Both options work well, depending on your flavor preference. For a more complex texture, crumble the sausage into small pieces before mixing it in with the soup.
6. Vegan Tomato And Basil Soup
If you’re following a vegan diet, this soup can easily be made plant-based by substituting the butter for olive oil and omitting any dairy ingredients. You can enhance the richness by adding a dollop of cashew cream or blending in some cooked potatoes or carrots to add a natural creaminess without dairy.
7. Herb-Infused Tomato Soup
If you want to amplify the herb flavors, try infusing the soup with additional herbs. A sprig of thyme, rosemary, or oregano can be added while the soup simmers, creating a more aromatic broth. Just be sure to remove the stems before serving for a smooth texture.
8. Chunky Tomato And Basil Soup
While Mary Berry’s recipe calls for a smooth, velvety texture, you can make the soup chunkier by not blending it entirely or by leaving some tomato pieces intact. This variation adds more texture and bite, making it feel like a more substantial meal.
Each of these variations adds its own unique twist to the classic recipe, allowing you to enjoy Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup in a way that suits your personal taste. Whether you’re seeking something creamy, spicy, or vegan, these easy changes can turn this simple soup into something extraordinary.
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup is that it makes a large batch, making it perfect for leftovers. Properly storing and reheating it will ensure that you enjoy it again later, without compromising on taste or texture.
1. Cooling And Storing In The Fridge
To store your leftover soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can affect the soup’s texture. The soup will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
2. Freezing For Longer Storage
If you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later, freezing is an excellent option. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool to room temperature, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags. Be sure to leave some room for expansion as the soup freezes. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, or reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop, though you may need to adjust the heat to ensure it heats through evenly.
3. Reheating Tips
When reheating the soup, be mindful not to overheat it, as this could cause it to lose its creamy consistency. If the soup seems too thick after being refrigerated or frozen, you can thin it out by adding a splash of vegetable stock, water, or cream. Give it a quick stir to bring the texture back to its original smoothness.
4. Enhancing Leftovers
Leftover soup can sometimes benefit from a little freshening up. Consider adding fresh basil, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a spoonful of cream to revive its flavor before serving. You could also toast some crusty bread to serve alongside it, or even top it with a little grated cheese and let it melt for an extra touch of indulgence.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Tomato And Basil Soup?
Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides, snacks, and accompaniments. Whether you’re looking for something light and healthy or indulgent and comforting, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The classic pairing of tomato soup and grilled cheese is iconic for a reason. The crunchy, buttery exterior of the grilled cheese, combined with the gooey, melty cheese inside, contrasts wonderfully with the smooth, tangy soup. You can use a variety of cheeses-cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère-to suit your preference, and even experiment with adding herbs or tomatoes to the sandwich itself for added flavor.
2. Crusty Bread
A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Whether it’s a sourdough baguette, a rustic French loaf, or a hearty wholegrain, the bread will soak up the delicious tomato and basil flavors. You can even rub the bread with a cut garlic clove before serving for an added depth of flavor.
3. Salad
If you’re looking for a lighter side, a simple salad can balance the richness of the soup. A fresh green salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, drizzled with olive oil and a balsamic vinaigrette, will bring a crisp, refreshing contrast. Add some roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, for a bit more substance and flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or zucchini are a great way to add some sweetness and earthiness to your meal. The caramelized edges of roasted veggies complement the acidity of the tomatoes in the soup beautifully.
5. Cheese Board
For a more sophisticated pairing, a cheese board with a variety of cheeses (like Brie, blue cheese, or goat cheese) alongside crackers, fruit, and olives can make a delightful accompaniment. The richness of the cheeses contrasts nicely with the lightness of the soup, creating a well-rounded meal.
6. Garlic Bread
A classic choice for many, garlic bread is a natural match for tomato soup. The combination of buttery, garlicky goodness and crunchy texture adds a savory note that enhances the fresh, herby flavors of the soup. You can even make it more interesting by adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley.
7. Chicken Tenders Or Fish Sticks
If you’re craving something more substantial, try serving the soup with crispy chicken tenders or fish sticks. These protein-packed sides provide a satisfying contrast in texture, and the mild flavor of the chicken or fish won’t overpower the delicate tomato and basil.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup is a versatile, comforting dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. From simple variations like creamy or spicy versions to more substantial pairings with grilled cheese or garlic bread, this soup serves as a perfect base for experimentation. Whether you’re storing leftovers for later or serving it with your favorite sides, this dish is sure to be a hit every time.
Its adaptability is part of what makes it so beloved in kitchens around the world-easy to prepare, yet open to endless customization. With a little creativity, you can enjoy it in new and exciting ways, making it a staple that never grows old. So, next time you’re in the mood for something warm, comforting, and satisfying, Mary Berry’s Tomato and Basil Soup is sure to hit the spot-every time.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Tomato And Basil Soup?
Mary Berry’s tomato and basil soup requires simple, fresh ingredients including ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, onions, garlic, olive oil, vegetable or chicken stock, and a touch of seasoning like salt and pepper. Some variations might also include a splash of cream or sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Tomato And Basil Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, Mary Berry’s tomato and basil soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, like many soups, the flavors deepen and improve after resting. You can prepare the soup up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Alternatively, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Is Mary Berry’s Tomato And Basil Soup Suitable For A Vegetarian Diet?
Yes, Mary Berry’s tomato and basil soup is suitable for a vegetarian diet, as long as you use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The soup is naturally vegetarian-friendly, as it is made from tomatoes, basil, and other plant-based ingredients, with no meat or animal-derived products.
