Creamy Tomato Soup with Basil Croutons

This recipe for creamy tomato soup is bright, smooth, and a classic comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening. (A favourite of mine for when feeling unwell, or just when a sofa day is needed). The soup is made with fresh, ripe tomatoes, blended to a thick and velvety consistency, and creating a rich and flavourful base. To elevate the soup, crispy, flavourful croutons are needed, which is made from fresh basil leaves, for a delightful textural contrast and a burst of flavour Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for a complete and satisfying meal.

This meal is only £2.63 for a small batch, serving a family of 4, this is an average of 66 p per portion. A true cost of living buster!

Cooking in batches saves money, the amount will greatly depend on what you are cooking and how much you are willing to pay for ingredients. A tin of soup from a leading UK supermarket will cost between £1.20 and £2.50. This recipe will save on average £2.17 as a comparison to the cheapest average.

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The instructions 

Ingredients:

1. 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil.
2. 1 medium onion, finely chopped. 
3. 2 garlic cloves, minced.
4. 800g (2 cans) or 1kg of fresh, ripe tomatoes peeled. 
5. 500g of Vegetable stock, or chicken stock for flavour and depth. 
6. 1 tbsp of sugar (balances the acidity)
7. A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn. 
8. Salt and freshly ground pepper.

Optional for that extra flavour:

1. 2 tbsp of double cream or mascarpone for a more creamy flavour.
2. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar for more richness.
3. A shake or 2 of chilli flakes for a spicy flavour. 

Create a Flavorful base:

1. Simmer the olive oil on a medium heat in a large saucepan.
2. Cook the onion for around 5-7 minutes, or until golden.
3. Stir in garlic, for 1 minute. A low cooking time will release the aroma without burning the garlic.

Simmer the soup:

1. Add the tomatoes and the stock.
2. Add sugar, salt and pepper, and bring everything to the simmer.
3. Let the ingredients cook for 15-20 minutes. The ingredients will blend beautifully.

Blend for a Smooth finish:

1. Remove from the heat and stir in most of the basil leaves.
2. Use a sturdy blender to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy, adding mascarpone or double cream for preference. 

Homemade croutons. 

1. 3-4 slices of day old bread. Any style of bread will do, although I use Ciabatta for texture. 
2. 2 tbsp of olive oil. 
3. 1 tsp of garlic powder (optional)
4. 1 tsp of mixed herbs
5. A pinch of salt and pepper. Season to taste. 
6. Place on a baking tray for 10-12 minutes until crunchy. (Turning as appropriate)

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