Comfort in a Bowl

Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Roasted Tomato Soup, a recipe that promises to warm your heart and soul. This rich, flavorful soup is perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a cozy, satisfying meal. Made with fresh, roasted tomatoes and a blend of aromatic herbs, this soup delivers a burst of flavor in every spoonful.

**Ingredients: Fresh and Flavorful**

1. **Fresh Tomatoes:**
- 8-10 ripe Roma or plum tomatoes
2. **Aromatics:**
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
3. **Herbs:**
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
4. **Seasonings:**
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
5. **Liquids:**
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk (optional for creamier texture)
6. **Olive Oil:**
- 3 tablespoons olive oil

**Preparation: Simple and Satisfying**

1. **Roasting the Tomatoes:**
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and halve the tomatoes, then place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and slightly charred.

2. **Sautéing the Aromatics:**
- In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. **Combining Ingredients:**
- Add the roasted tomatoes (including any juices from the baking sheet) to the pot.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth.
- Stir in the basil and oregano.
- Season with additional salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).

4. **Simmering:**
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. **Blending:**
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until smooth.
- If using, stir in the heavy cream or milk for a richer, creamier texture.

6. **Final Touches:**
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

**Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings**

1. **Crusty Bread:** Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for dipping.
2. **Salad:** Pair with a fresh, green salad for a light and balanced meal.
3. **Toppings:** Enhance your soup with toppings like croutons, shredded Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

**Conclusion: A Soulful Delight**

This Roasted Tomato Soup is more than just a meal—it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. The deep, roasted flavors of the tomatoes combined with aromatic herbs and a creamy finish make this soup a standout dish. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter's day or as a delightful starter, this soup is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the heartwarming goodness of homemade Roasted Tomato Soup, and let it warm your heart and soul!

In a large tray mix the tomatoes, garlic, peppers, red onion, rosemary and thyme, add generous amount of olive oil, salt and pepper and roast in a preheated oven, fan on 375F/190C until caramelized, about 50-60 minutes. When ready, saute the white onion in the butter in a fairly large pot, add the tomato paste, mix it and add all the roasted tomatoes from the tray. Add the stock, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper, if needed and the fresh basil. Let it simmer on the stove for 8-10 minutes. After that time, take it off the stove and blend everything together. Take it back to the stove and add the cream, when it starts to simmer, turn it off, it`s ready! Taste it and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve with toast with cheese of your choice, I`ve used mozzarella and cheddar!
Enjoy!