Making delicious tomato soup from frozen tomatoes is easier than you think! This versatile recipe allows you to enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes year-round, without the hassle of canning or preserving. Whether you've grown your own tomatoes or purchased them frozen, this guide will help you create a vibrant and flavorful soup that's perfect for a cozy night in or a light lunch.
Why Use Frozen Tomatoes for Soup?
Using frozen tomatoes offers several advantages:
- Convenience: Frozen tomatoes are readily available year-round, eliminating the need to wait for the peak tomato season.
- Cost-effectiveness: Frozen tomatoes are often cheaper than fresh tomatoes, especially during times when fresh tomatoes are out of season.
- Reduced Food Waste: Freezing allows you to preserve excess tomatoes from your garden or prevent fresh tomatoes from spoiling before you can use them.
- Consistent Flavor: Frozen tomatoes are often picked at their peak ripeness, ensuring consistent flavor and sweetness in your soup.
What Kind of Frozen Tomatoes Should I Use?
While you can use any type of frozen tomato, the best choices for soup are:
- Whole peeled tomatoes: These offer the most flexibility and allow you to control the texture of your soup.
- Crushed tomatoes: These are a convenient option and require less preparation.
- Diced tomatoes: These work well, but may result in a slightly chunkier soup.
Avoid using frozen tomato paste or sauce, as these have already been cooked and may lead to a less vibrant flavor in your final soup.
How to Make Tomato Soup from Frozen Tomatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Ingredients:
- 28 ounces (794g) frozen whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness
Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes: Add the frozen tomatoes to the pot. No need to thaw them beforehand!
- Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth, basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 20 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally.
- Blend the soup (optional): For a smoother soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk (if using) and heat through. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as fresh basil, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream.
How Long Does Tomato Soup from Frozen Tomatoes Last?
Properly stored, tomato soup made from frozen tomatoes will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage; allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to My Frozen Tomato Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen tomato soup is a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Consider adding:
- Carrots: Add diced carrots along with the onions for extra sweetness and nutrition.
- Celery: Celery adds a subtle earthy flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Other vegetables: Experiment with other frozen vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Is it Better to Use Fresh or Frozen Tomatoes for Soup?
Both fresh and frozen tomatoes can produce delicious soup. Fresh tomatoes offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor, while frozen tomatoes offer convenience and consistent quality. The best choice depends on your preferences and what's available to you.
How Can I Thicken My Tomato Soup from Frozen Tomatoes?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by:
- Simmering longer: Allowing the soup to simmer uncovered for a longer period will reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.
- Adding a roux: A roux (a mixture of butter and flour) is a classic way to thicken soups and sauces.
- Using a cornstarch slurry: Whisk together cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the simmering soup.
This comprehensive guide provides a delicious and easy way to make tomato soup from frozen tomatoes. Enjoy!
