How to Make Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that’s simple to prepare yet rich in flavor. When paired with crispy, cheesy, and flavorful onion toast, it becomes the ultimate meal for chilly evenings or a quick lunch. Here’s how to make this delightful dish from scratch, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every spoonful and bite.
Ingredients:
For the Tomato Soup:
4 medium-sized ripe tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or thyme (optional, for added flavor)
½ cup cream or milk (optional, for a creamier soup)
For the Cheese and Onion Toast:
4 slices of thick bread (sourdough, whole grain, or white)
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp butter
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Soup
Cook the Aromatics: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Tomatoes: If you're using fresh tomatoes, peel and chop them. Add the tomatoes to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices. If you're using canned tomatoes, simply add them in their entirety.
Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Blend the Soup: Once the tomatoes are fully cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Blend until smooth. For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream at this point.
Adjust the Flavor: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. For a touch of extra flavor, you can stir in fresh basil or thyme.
Serve: Once your soup is smooth and velvety, remove from heat and keep warm while you prepare the toast.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese and Onion Toast
Caramelize the Onions: Heat the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown and caramelized. Be patient, as slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness.
Toast the Bread: While the onions are caramelizing, toast the bread slices in a toaster or on a grill pan until they’re golden and crisp. If you prefer, you can butter the bread before toasting for an extra rich flavor.
Assemble the Toast: Once the bread is toasted, pile the caramelized onions on top of each slice. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the onions.
Melt the Cheese: Place the topped bread slices under a broiler or in a hot oven (around 400°F/200°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbling, remove from the oven and sprinkle a little salt, pepper, and chopped herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 3: Enjoy Your Meal
Serve your creamy, warm tomato soup in bowls, accompanied by the cheesy, crispy onion toast. The rich, savory soup pairs perfectly with the crunchy, melty toast, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Tips and Variations:
For a smoky twist, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce to the tomato soup.
You can experiment with different types of cheese—go for sharp cheddar for a tangy punch or mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture.
If you're looking for a more filling soup, consider adding a handful of cooked pasta or beans to the soup base.
To make the soup vegan, simply omit the cream and use plant-based cheese for the toast.
This homemade tomato soup with cheese and onion toast is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking to warm up on a cold day or enjoy a quick lunch, this dish will surely hit the spot.