Clear Tomato Soup
Clear tomato soup is a light, refreshing soup that highlights the natural sweetness and acidity of ripe tomatoes. Unlike creamy tomato soups, this version focuses on the clean, clear broth that comes from simmering tomatoes, herbs, and spices.
It’s a wonderful option for those looking for a lighter soup without compromising on flavor. This clear tomato soup is not only easy to make but also versatile, making it a great choice for a starter, lunch, or dinner. The tangy, fragrant broth pairs perfectly with fresh herbs, creating a simple yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
6 medium ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
1 small onion, quartered
2 garlic cloves, smashed
1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter version)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped)
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For Garnish:
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
A drizzle of olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Clear Tomato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and roughly chop the tomatoes, removing any stems. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the tomatoes by scoring a small “X” at the base, blanching them in boiling water for a minute, and then peeling off the skin.
Chop the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. These vegetables will add depth to the broth and complement the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent. This step will release the flavors and build the base of your soup.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and soften.
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring the soup to a boil. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down further.
Step 4: Strain the Soup
After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the soup into another pot or bowl. Press the vegetables with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible, then discard the solids. This step ensures you have a clear broth.
If you prefer a heartier soup with texture, you can skip straining and leave the vegetables in.
Step 5: Season the Broth
Return the strained broth to the pot and bring it to a simmer again.
Add dried basil, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too acidic, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to balance out the flavors.
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors develop and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the clear tomato soup into bowls.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
Chef’s Notes
Tomato Variety: For the best flavor, use ripe, seasonal tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes or Roma tomatoes are great choices for a deeper, richer flavor.
Broth Options: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for a heartier flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, water can be used as a base.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or parsley can also be used in place of dried basil and thyme for a fresher taste.
Optional Add-ins: To add some protein and make the soup more substantial, you can stir in cooked quinoa, rice, or small pasta.
Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 80
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 4g
Vitamin A: 25% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 40% of the Daily Value
Potassium: 10% of the Daily Value
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Clear tomato soup is a flavorful, light, and refreshing soup that can be enjoyed by itself or as a base for more complex dishes. Its bright, tangy broth made from fresh tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables provides a comforting and nutritious option. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, this soup is an excellent choice for busy weeknights or as a quick, healthy lunch. Enjoy the clean, refreshing taste of this homemade clear tomato soup!