Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato And Garlic Soup Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup is a wonderfully comforting dish that blends the rich, savory flavors of roasted tomatoes with the aromatic depth of garlic. Known for her iconic cooking style, Mary Berry has created a soup that not only captures the essence of ripe, sun-kissed tomatoes but also elevates their natural sweetness through the roasting process. The addition of garlic infuses the soup with a warm, earthy quality, making every spoonful a soothing and rich experience.

Roasting the tomatoes before making the soup intensifies their flavor, giving the dish a deeper, more complex taste than traditional fresh tomato soups. The natural sugars in the tomatoes caramelize during roasting, creating a slightly smoky, sweet undertone that pairs beautifully with the garlicky base. This soup is perfect for cooler months when you crave something hearty yet light and fresh. With its vibrant red color and silky smooth texture, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Mary Berry’s recipe is simple, relying on fresh, quality ingredients, but it offers a surprisingly gourmet taste. It’s ideal for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike, with its easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal for a cozy night in or a dish to serve at a dinner gathering, Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup delivers a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress.

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato And Garlic Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the soup’s depth of flavor.

• Ripe Tomatoes (about 1.5 kg / 3 lbs): Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for this soup. The roasting process will concentrate their sweetness, so pick tomatoes that are in season for the best flavor.
• Garlic (6 cloves, peeled): Garlic is a key ingredient that brings a fragrant, savory undertone to the soup. Roasting the garlic softens its flavor and makes it sweeter, mellowing out any sharpness.
• Red Onion (1 large, peeled and quartered): Red onions contribute a subtle sweetness to the soup. When roasted, they caramelize beautifully, balancing out the tang of the tomatoes and garlic.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Olive oil is used for roasting the vegetables, helping them brown and become tender, while also adding richness to the soup.
• Fresh Basil (a small bunch): Fresh basil brings a hint of brightness and herbaceousness to the soup, which complements the earthy flavors of roasted garlic and tomatoes.
• Vegetable Stock (500 ml / 2 cups): The stock forms the soup’s base, providing the necessary liquid to blend everything into a smooth, velvety consistency.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These simple seasonings are essential for enhancing the flavors of the soup. Mary Berry recommends seasoning the soup lightly at first and adjusting to taste.

Equipment Needed

While Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup doesn’t require any fancy kitchen gadgets, there are a few basic pieces of equipment that will make your cooking process smooth and efficient.

• Roasting Tray or Baking Sheet: For roasting the tomatoes, garlic, and onions. Choose a tray that provides enough space for all the vegetables in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly.
• Sharp Knife and Chopping Board: These are needed for prepping the tomatoes, onions, and garlic. A sharp knife will make the chopping process faster and safer.
• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: After roasting the vegetables, you’ll need a large pot to combine them with the vegetable stock and simmer them into a rich, flavorful soup.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: To turn the roasted vegetables into a smooth, velvety soup. If using a regular blender, you’ll need to carefully puree the soup in batches. An immersion blender (also called a stick blender) allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for ease.
• Ladle: This is helpful when serving the soup, especially when you’ve made a large batch.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring out ingredients like olive oil, vegetable stock, and seasonings.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato And Garlic Soup

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. This high temperature is perfect for caramelizing the tomatoes, garlic, and onions, enhancing their natural sweetness.

2. Prepare The Vegetables

   • Cut the tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on a roasting tray.
   • Add the quartered onions and garlic cloves (leave the skins on) to the tray. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
   • Toss the vegetables lightly to coat them in the oil and seasoning, then spread them out evenly on the tray.

3. Roast The Vegetables

   • Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft, slightly wrinkled, and beginning to brown, while the garlic becomes fragrant and tender.
   • Halfway through, you can give the vegetables a gentle stir to ensure even roasting.

4. Blend The Soup

   • Once roasted, remove the tray from the oven and let the vegetables cool slightly.
   • Squeeze the garlic out of its skins (it should be soft and mushy) and place all the vegetables into a large pot.
   • Add the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

5. Purée The Soup

   • Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a countertop blender in batches, then blend until silky.
   • If the soup is too thick, you can add more stock or water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Taste And Adjust

   • Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if needed. Stir in freshly chopped basil for added flavor and a pop of color.

7. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a few basil leaves, or a dollop of cream if you like. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Tips And Tricks

• Roast the Tomatoes Longer: If you want a more intense tomato flavor, roast your tomatoes a bit longer. They will caramelize further, giving the soup a deeper sweetness and more complex flavor.
• Add a Touch of Heat: For a little kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small sliced chili along with the tomatoes and onions before roasting. This adds a gentle heat without overpowering the flavor.
• Use a Blend of Tomatoes: While Mary Berry’s recipe uses regular tomatoes, you can experiment by adding other varieties, such as cherry tomatoes or plum tomatoes, for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk once the soup is blended. It will enhance the richness and texture of the soup.
• Save the Skin: If you don’t mind a slightly chunkier texture, you can leave the skins of the tomatoes on while roasting. If you want a smoother finish, peel them beforehand.
• Perfect for Freezing: This soup freezes incredibly well. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup is a dish that celebrates the magic of simple, fresh ingredients. The roasting process transforms the tomatoes into a velvety, sweet base, while the garlic and onions add complexity and warmth. With its straightforward recipe, this soup is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels who want to create something comforting, delicious, and nourishing.

Whether served as a light lunch, a starter for a dinner party, or a cozy meal on a cold day, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy. And with its versatility – you can tweak the recipe to make it as creamy or spicy as you like – it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. So grab some ripe tomatoes, fire up the oven, and let Mary Berry guide you to a bowl of soup that’s both simple and extraordinary.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato And Garlic Soup

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup is already a delicious, comforting dish with a perfect balance of rich, sweet tomatoes and the mellow depth of roasted garlic. However, if you’re looking to put your own spin on it or cater to different tastes, there are plenty of ways to tweak this classic recipe. Let’s dive into some fun and easy variations that can keep things exciting in the kitchen.

1. Herb Infusion

   Adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary can really elevate the flavor of the soup. Fresh basil, for example, brings a burst of aromatic freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the roasted tomatoes. If you’re a fan of a deeper herbal profile, try adding a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary during the roasting process and then removing them before blending. These herbs give the soup a subtle earthy note that will transform the taste.

2. Creamy Tomato Soup

   If you’re craving a creamy version, you can add a bit of heavy cream or even full-fat coconut milk towards the end of the cooking process. This will result in a silky-smooth texture and a slightly richer flavor profile. For those who are dairy-free, coconut milk is a great option-it complements the tomatoes and garlic in a surprisingly delicious way. You could also use a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for a slightly tangy twist.

3. Spicy Kick

   For those who like to add a bit of heat, try introducing chili flakes, a chopped fresh chili pepper, or a dash of hot sauce during the roasting or cooking stage. Roasting the tomatoes with a little bit of chili can infuse the entire soup with warmth and spice. If you’re really adventurous, adding a pinch of smoked paprika can bring in a smoky depth to balance the heat.

4. Roasted Red Peppers

   Another wonderful variation would be to throw in some roasted red bell peppers. Roasting the peppers along with the tomatoes adds a layer of sweetness and depth, making the soup even more complex and flavorful. The addition of roasted red peppers enhances the richness without overpowering the flavor of the tomatoes. Just peel the skin off the roasted peppers before blending them into the soup for an extra-smooth texture.

5. Add A Protein

   For a heartier meal, consider adding a protein element. Grilled chicken or crispy bacon bits are perfect for adding substance to the soup. If you prefer plant-based options, chickpeas or lentils can work well as they soak up the tomato flavor and add texture. Simply stir them in during the cooking stage, or if you prefer a smoother texture, blend them into the soup.

6. Crispy Toppings

   Topping your soup with something crunchy adds an enjoyable contrast to the smoothness of the soup. A sprinkle of crispy croutons, a handful of toasted seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower), or even a drizzle of olive oil infused with garlic and herbs can enhance the experience. Parmesan shavings or a sprinkle of grated cheese also give a nice finishing touch, adding both flavor and texture.

7. Roast The Garlic With Other Vegetables

   While the recipe calls for roasting garlic and tomatoes, consider mixing in other vegetables like carrots or onions. Roasting these alongside the garlic and tomatoes will bring out their natural sweetness and provide more complexity to the flavor. This is a great option if you want to stretch the soup or add in some extra veggies for nutritional benefits.

Storing Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup can be a great dish to make in advance, and it stores beautifully for future meals. Whether you’ve made a big batch to serve guests or just want to have some leftovers for a quick lunch later, here’s how you can store it to keep it fresh:

1. Refrigeration

   If you plan to eat the soup within 3-4 days, storing it in the fridge is the easiest and most convenient option. Simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It’s best to store it without the toppings, as things like croutons can become soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra seasoning if needed.

2. Freezing

   For longer storage, freezing the soup is a great way to preserve its flavor and freshness. After the soup has cooled, pour it into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Leave a little space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as the soup freezes. The soup will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it on the stove. If you freeze the soup in smaller portions, it’ll be even easier to reheat just the amount you need.

3. Tip For Avoiding Separation

   Tomato-based soups can sometimes separate after freezing, which may result in a slightly less smooth texture when reheating. To combat this, you can blend the soup again after reheating or add a splash of water, vegetable stock, or cream to bring it back to life. It’s also a good idea to stir occasionally as it reheats to ensure it’s well-combined.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato And Garlic Soup?

Pairing food with Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup can turn a simple dish into an amazing meal experience. Here are some great options for what to serve alongside it:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

   A classic pairing with tomato soup, a grilled cheese sandwich provides a comforting, crispy counterpart to the smooth soup. Use your favorite bread, whether it’s sourdough, whole-grain, or a simple white loaf. For the cheese, go with something that melts beautifully, like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both. A sprinkle of herbs like thyme or basil in the butter can add extra flavor.

2. Fresh Salads

   A crisp, fresh salad offers a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or a more substantial option like a Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, and cucumber. The acidity of the dressing will balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes in the soup.

3. Garlic Bread

   If you’re looking to lean into the garlicky flavor of the soup, why not pair it with a side of homemade garlic bread? The crusty bread, buttered and seasoned with garlic, makes for a delicious, savory pairing. Plus, it’s perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all that delicious liquid.

4. Roasted Vegetables

   For a more substantial meal, roasted vegetables-such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash-work wonderfully alongside the soup. Their natural sweetness complements the roasted tomatoes and garlic while providing texture and added nutrients to the meal.

5. Quiche

   A light quiche with a savory filling like spinach and feta or mushrooms and caramelized onions makes for a great pairing. The buttery crust and rich egg filling balance the acidity of the tomato soup beautifully, making this an elegant yet hearty combination.

6. Crusty Baguette Or Ciabatta

   If you’re more into a simple, rustic pairing, serve the soup with a fresh, crusty baguette or ciabatta bread. The bread is perfect for dipping, and it doesn’t need to compete with the flavor of the soup-it just enhances the overall experience.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup is a true classic that showcases the simple yet powerful flavors of roasted tomatoes and garlic. Its versatility makes it an ideal canvas for experimentation-whether you prefer adding a bit of spice, a creamy texture, or a fresh herb infusion, there’s a variation to suit every palate. Storing leftovers is easy, whether you opt for refrigerating or freezing them, ensuring you can enjoy the soup for days to come. Pairing the soup with crusty bread, fresh salads, or a warm grilled cheese sandwich turns it into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato And Garlic Soup?

To make Mary Berry’s roasted tomato and garlic soup, you’ll need ripe tomatoes, garlic cloves, olive oil, vegetable or chicken stock, and a selection of fresh herbs such as thyme and basil. The recipe also calls for salt, pepper, and optional cream for added richness. For the best flavor, it’s recommended to use high-quality tomatoes, and you can also add a touch of sugar to balance the acidity.

How Do I Roast The Tomatoes And Garlic For The Soup?

To roast the tomatoes and garlic, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Halve the tomatoes and place them on a baking tray along with whole garlic cloves (unpeeled). Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme. Roast them for around 30-35 minutes until the tomatoes have softened and caramelized, which will enhance their flavor. Once done, let them cool slightly before peeling the garlic cloves.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato And Garlic Soup Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s roasted tomato and garlic soup ahead of time. In fact, the soup can benefit from resting as it allows the flavors to develop further. Once prepared, allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.