Looking for a new cozy dish? My Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is simple, quick, and bursting with flavor! You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a bowl of warmth and comfort. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can savor every spoonful. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and transform your meal time into a creamy, tomato-filled joy. Ready to get cooking? Let’s go!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (can be fresh or canned)
– 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free alternative)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Optional Ingredients
– A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
– Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor
– A splash of lemon juice for brightness
Ingredient Substitutions
– Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor.
– Swap onions for leeks for a milder taste.
– Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky touch.
– Replace heavy cream with cashew cream for a vegan option.
– Use fresh basil oil if you don’t have fresh basil.
Each ingredient plays a key role in the flavor and texture of the soup. I love using fresh tomatoes when they are in season. They give the soup a vibrant taste. The cream adds richness, while fresh basil provides a lovely aroma. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the options and substitutions! This soup is very forgiving and allows you to make it your own.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sautéing Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Heat it for about one minute. Then, add one medium onion, chopped finely. Sauté the onion for three to five minutes until it turns soft and clear. This step builds a great base for flavor. Next, add three minced garlic cloves. Cook for one more minute. You want the garlic to smell nice but not burn.
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to mix in the main ingredients. Pour in four cups of diced ripe tomatoes, fresh or canned. Add one cup of vegetable broth or chicken broth if you prefer. Next, stir in one teaspoon of dried oregano. If you want, add one tablespoon of granulated sugar. This helps balance the tomato’s acidity. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your taste. Mix everything well to combine all those lovely flavors.
Pressure Cooking
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the soup setting or set it to cook on high pressure for ten minutes. This is where the magic happens! The pressure helps meld all the flavors together. Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for ten minutes. After that, switch the valve to venting to release any extra pressure.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
To get that dreamy creaminess, use heavy cream for a rich taste. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut milk works great too. When you blend the soup, add the cream after blending. This keeps it smooth and velvety. Blend it well, but you can leave some chunks for texture if you like.
Balancing Flavors
Tomatoes can be acidic, so balance them with sugar. A tablespoon of sugar helps cut the tartness. Don’t forget to taste as you go! Add sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors. Fresh basil adds a nice earthy touch. Use a generous amount for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your soup hot in wide bowls. This makes it look fancy! Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for a shiny finish. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Pair the soup with crusty bread or a fresh baguette for a complete meal. Enjoy this cozy dish with friends or family!
Variations
Dairy-Free Option
You can easily make this soup dairy-free. Instead of heavy cream, use coconut milk. It gives the soup a rich taste. The coconut milk adds a hint of sweetness. This option keeps the soup creamy without dairy.
Adding Extra Vegetables
Want to boost nutrition? Add more veggies! Chopped carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini work great. Sauté them with the onions and garlic. This adds flavor and color. You can also blend in cooked spinach for extra greens.
Spicy Tomato Basil Soup
If you like heat, spice it up! Add red pepper flakes to the sauté. You can also mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This will give your soup a spicy kick. Adjust the heat to your taste. Enjoy your new spicy twist!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After making your creamy tomato basil soup, let it cool completely. Store the soup in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Before serving, always check for any off smells or changes in texture.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. The soup can last in the freezer for about 3 months. Remember to label the containers with the date before freezing.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, take it out of the fridge or freezer. For refrigerated soup, simply heat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to ensure it warms evenly. If frozen, let it defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can also use the microwave, but stir it every minute for even heating. Add a splash of water or cream if it seems too thick after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. They work great in this soup. Canned tomatoes save time and still taste good. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. You will need about 4 cups of canned tomatoes to match the recipe.
How to make it without an Instant Pot?
You can make this soup on the stove. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in a pot. Then, add the tomatoes, broth, and oregano. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. After that, blend the soup until smooth. Finally, stir in the cream and basil.
What can I serve with tomato basil soup?
Tomato basil soup pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with crusty bread or a fresh baguette. Grilled cheese sandwiches also make a great match. For a light touch, add a simple salad on the side.
In this blog post, we covered the key ingredients for tomato basil soup, how to prepare them, and smart cooking tips. You learned about ingredient swaps and variations, including dairy-free and extra veggie options. We also discussed storage and reheating, ensuring your soup stays tasty.
Use this guide to make your soup perfect every time. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and find what you love best!
