Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is a rich, comforting dish that combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the smoky depth created by roasting. This recipe, often associated with Mary Berry’s approach to wholesome, no-fuss cooking, is a celebration of simple yet luxurious flavors. It’s a perfect example of how a few basic ingredients, when combined with a little time and care, can turn into something utterly divine. By roasting the tomatoes first, you allow their flavors to intensify and develop a deep, caramelized richness that gives the soup its signature flavor profile.

Roasting the tomatoes also brings out their natural sugars, enhancing the depth of the soup while softening their acidity. The result is a velvety smooth, thick soup that is perfectly balanced and comforting, especially when paired with crusty bread or a dollop of fresh cream. This recipe is ideal for a cozy family dinner or as a starter to a more elaborate meal.

What sets Mary Berry’s recipe apart is her understanding of balance-whether it’s in the seasoning or the consistency of the soup. She keeps the ingredients simple but knows exactly how to bring out their best qualities. Plus, it’s a dish that can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences or ingredient substitutions. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is sure to warm both your body and your soul.

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup, the ingredients are wonderfully simple yet pack a punch of flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Fresh Tomatoes: The star of the show. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. You’ll need around 1.5 kg (approximately 3 pounds) of them for a generous batch.
• Onions: 1-2 medium-sized onions, sliced, to add sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves will do. Garlic adds a gentle kick and aromatic warmth to the soup.
• Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons for roasting the vegetables and for a bit of richness in the soup.
• Tomato Purée: A small spoonful to deepen the tomato flavor and help thicken the soup.
• Vegetable Stock: About 1 liter (4 cups) of vegetable stock or broth. It’s best to use a low-salt version to maintain control over the seasoning.
• Fresh Basil: A few sprigs to garnish and infuse the soup with fresh, aromatic notes.
• Sugar: A pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, if needed.
• Salt and Pepper: To season to taste, ensuring the flavor is well-rounded.

These ingredients, though simple, work together to create a beautifully flavorful soup that will leave you craving more. The roasted tomatoes are the star, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing out the best in them.

Equipment Needed

When it comes to equipment, you don’t need anything too fancy for Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Roasting Tray: A large baking tray or sheet to roast the tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Make sure it’s big enough to allow the ingredients to be spread out evenly for even roasting.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing your onions and garlic, and for cutting the tomatoes if they aren’t already prepped.
• Large Pot or Saucepan: After roasting, the soup will need to be cooked further and blended. A medium to large-sized pot works best for this.
• Blender or Hand Blender: A powerful blender to puree the soup until smooth. A hand blender can also be used if you prefer to do it directly in the pot, which saves on washing up.
• Wooden Spoon: To stir the soup as it cooks, ensuring that nothing sticks to the bottom and that the flavors meld together.
• Baking Paper: To line the roasting tray and prevent the vegetables from sticking.
• Measuring Cups: To ensure the correct amount of stock, oil, and seasoning.

That’s pretty much all you need to make this delicious roasted tomato soup. The key is in the roasting and blending, which ensures you get a perfectly smooth texture and a burst of flavor in every spoonful.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup

Making Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is an easy and satisfying process that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. This high temperature helps to roast the tomatoes quickly and evenly, developing that lovely caramelized sweetness.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes and Vegetables: Cut the tomatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size. Slice the onions into wedges, and peel and crush the garlic cloves. Toss all the vegetables into the roasting tray. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add a little sugar if your tomatoes are very acidic.
3. Roast the Vegetables: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for around 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and caramelized, and the onions and garlic are lightly browned and fragrant. Stir once or twice to ensure everything roasts evenly.
4. Blend the Soup: Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them into a large saucepan. Add the tomato purée, vegetable stock, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors together. Afterward, use a hand blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse it a few times instead of blending it completely.
5. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or sugar, depending on how sweet or tangy the tomatoes are. If the soup is too thick, add a little more stock to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. A drizzle of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche can be added for extra creaminess, or serve with some crusty bread for dipping.

Tips And Tricks

1. Choose Ripe Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will have a significant impact on the flavor of the soup. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the sweetest and most flavorful result.
2. Roast for Depth of Flavor: Don’t rush the roasting process. Let the tomatoes, onions, and garlic caramelize to bring out their full potential. The roasting will transform their flavor and add a smoky depth to the soup.
3. Use a Blender: For a smooth and velvety texture, blend the soup well. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender lightly or mash the soup with a potato masher after cooking.
4. Add Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can be added before roasting for an extra layer of flavor. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top just before serving to give the soup a fragrant aroma.
5. Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. You can easily make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
6. Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to add fun toppings, such as a swirl of crème fraîche, a handful of croutons, or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients, when treated with care, can become something extraordinary. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with the natural sweetness of tomatoes that have been coaxed into perfection through roasting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is incredibly approachable and easy to execute, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.

The soup is not only a hearty meal on its own but also a perfect side to complement a variety of dishes. Serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination, or pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. No matter how you serve it, Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, offering warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is a classic, bursting with the richness of roasted tomatoes, herbs, and a comforting base of onions and garlic. However, there are countless ways to tweak and personalize this dish, whether you’re looking for a new twist or need to accommodate dietary preferences. Let’s explore some easy variations to make this soup even more delightful.

1. Spicy Kick

   If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding a touch of spice to your roasted tomato soup. A simple way to do this is by stirring in a teaspoon of red chili flakes, or if you want a deeper, smokier flavor, try adding chipotle powder or smoked paprika. For a fresher spice, finely chop a fresh chili pepper and cook it along with your onions and garlic for an added zing. You could even swirl in some hot sauce or sriracha at the end for an extra fiery finish.

2. Creamy Tomato Soup

   For a luxurious, silky texture, turn your classic roasted tomato soup into a creamy version. After blending the soup, stir in a dollop of heavy cream, sour cream, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. If you prefer a lighter option, you could also use half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. The cream will not only smooth out the soup but will also balance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded and indulgent dish.

3. Herb Infusion

   While Mary Berry’s recipe includes herbs like thyme, feel free to play around with your choices. Basil, rosemary, or even tarragon can give the soup a whole new flavor profile. To really intensify the herbal aroma, sauté the herbs with the garlic and onions before roasting the tomatoes. If you want an extra punch of freshness, chop up some basil or parsley and sprinkle it on top just before serving for a burst of vibrant flavor.

4. Roasted Vegetables Twist

   Incorporating additional roasted vegetables can elevate your soup’s depth and texture. Sweet bell peppers, carrots, or even fennel can complement the tomatoes wonderfully. Simply roast these veggies alongside the tomatoes, and blend everything together for a heartier, more complex soup. You could even add a small potato or sweet potato to thicken the soup and give it a slightly earthy flavor.

5. Cheese Lovers’ Delight

   Transform your soup into a more substantial meal with the addition of cheese. Grate some sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan and stir it into the soup after blending. If you want to make it even cheesier, serve the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side, or sprinkle the cheese directly onto the soup and broil it for a crispy, golden finish.

6. Vegan-Friendly Version

   For a vegan version of this soup, the recipe can easily be adjusted by swapping out the butter for olive oil and using a plant-based cream or coconut milk instead of dairy cream. Also, make sure to double-check the vegetable broth, ensuring it’s vegan-friendly (many store-bought broths contain animal products). The flavor of the roasted tomatoes is so intense that you won’t miss the dairy at all, and the creamy coconut milk can bring in a lovely, subtle sweetness.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover tomato soup is a great thing to have on hand for busy days, as it re-heats beautifully and is a comforting meal in minutes. If you’ve made a large batch and want to store it for later, here’s what you need to know:

1. Refrigeration

   Leftover Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply transfer the soup to an airtight container once it has cooled down. It’s a good idea to portion the soup out into smaller containers so you can reheat just the amount you need without having to reheat the entire batch each time. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently heat it on the stovetop or microwave until it’s piping hot. If it’s thickened during storage, you can easily add a splash of water, broth, or even a bit of extra cream to bring it back to your desired consistency.

2. Freezing

   If you want to keep your soup for longer, freezing it is an excellent option. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It’s also a good idea to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen. Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it as usual. If the soup separates slightly after freezing, simply stir it back together as it heats up.

3. Tips for Keeping It Fresh

   For best results, avoid freezing soup with any dairy added (if possible). Dairy tends to separate and become grainy when frozen and thawed. If you’ve already added cream, you might want to freeze the base of the soup and add the cream fresh when reheating. Also, for a little extra freshness, you can freeze some chopped herbs in an ice cube tray with a bit of olive oil, and stir those into your reheated soup to give it an extra burst of flavor.

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

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re looking for something hearty, light, or indulgent, there’s an ideal pairing to elevate the flavors of the soup.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

   The classic pairing with tomato soup, and for good reason! The crispy, buttery bread and the gooey melted cheese perfectly complement the tangy, sweet tomato base of the soup. For a twist, try different types of bread, such as sourdough, ciabatta, or a whole-grain loaf, and experiment with cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even Gruyère. Add some fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

2. Crusty Bread

   If you prefer a lighter option, serve your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A French baguette, artisan sourdough, or a hearty multigrain loaf are all excellent choices. The crispy exterior and soft interior of the bread will soak up the soup wonderfully, creating that satisfying contrast between textures.

3. Cheese and Charcuterie Board

   For a more sophisticated take, serve your soup alongside a cheese and charcuterie platter. The saltiness of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or chorizo pairs nicely with the acidity of the roasted tomatoes, and the variety of cheeses will add layers of complexity. A few slices of fresh fruit, such as apples or grapes, will balance the rich flavors and add a refreshing touch.

4. Salads

   A light, refreshing salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the soup. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast. If you prefer something more substantial, try a Mediterranean-inspired salad with cucumber, olives, feta, and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. The bright, fresh flavors will harmonize beautifully with the soup.

5. Roasted Vegetables

   For a heartier meal, serve the soup with a side of roasted vegetables. Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, and their caramelized edges provide a delicious texture contrast. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli can offer a slightly bitter, crispy element to balance the soup’s richness.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is one of those timeless recipes that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. It brings together the deep, roasted sweetness of tomatoes with savory aromatics and herbs, offering a bowl of comfort that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re following the recipe as is or exploring various easy variations, there’s always room to make this soup your own.

Storing leftovers is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the soup days later or even freeze it for future meals. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, pairing effortlessly with everything from the classic grilled cheese to a light salad or even a rich cheese and charcuterie board.

Whether served as a starter, a light lunch, or as part of a larger dinner spread, Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup is sure to please. It’s a recipe that’s as adaptable as it is delicious, making it a must-try for any home cook seeking a comforting, flavorful meal.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe?

Mary Berry’s roasted tomato soup features simple yet flavorful ingredients. The key ingredients include ripe tomatoes, red onions, garlic, olive oil, fresh basil, vegetable stock, and a touch of sugar. The tomatoes and onions are roasted to bring out their natural sweetness before blending into a smooth, comforting soup.

Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead Of Fresh Ones For Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup?

While Mary Berry’s recipe calls for fresh tomatoes to bring out the natural sweetness through roasting, you can substitute canned tomatoes if fresh ones are out of season. Choose a good quality canned plum or San Marzano tomato for the best flavor. However, the depth of flavor might be slightly different since roasted fresh tomatoes add a caramelized richness.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare And Cook Mary Berry’s Roasted Tomato Soup?

The total preparation time for Mary Berry’s roasted tomato soup is around 15 minutes, with an additional 40-45 minutes for roasting the tomatoes and onions. After roasting, it only takes about 10 minutes to blend the soup and simmer it with the stock, making the entire process around 1 hour. It’s a relatively quick yet flavorful dish to prepare.