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Autumn Tomato Soup with Apple Cider and Fresh Basil

This tomato soup features ripe seasonal tomatoes simmered with garlic, smoky paprika, and a splash of apple cider to deepen the sweetness and add fruity undertones. Once blended to a silky consistency, it's finished with fragrant basil for a vibrant, herbaceous finish, offering a warm and comforting texture perfect for crisp autumn days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • Fresh tomatoes 6- 8 medium, about 2 to 2½ pounds total, chopped: Form the sweet and slightly acidic base of the soup
  • Onion 1 medium, chopped: Builds a savory flavor foundation
  • Garlic 2- 3 cloves, minced: Adds warmth and depth
  • Olive oil or butter 1- 2 tablespoons: Helps soften the vegetables and round out flavors
  • Vegetable or chicken stock 2½ cups, plus more if needed to adjust consistency: Thins the soup while adding body
  • Heavy cream or half-and-half ¼- ½ cup, optional: Adds smooth richness
  • Salt to taste: Essential for balancing acidity
  • Black pepper ½ teaspoon, or to taste: Provides gentle warmth
  • Fresh basil 2 tablespoons, chopped: Adds a bright, herbal finish
  • Sugar or honey 1- 2 teaspoons, optional: Lightly balances the tomatoes’ natural acidity

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Even heat for simmering
  • Sharp Knife: For chopping tomatoes and onion
  • Cutting Board: Stable prep surface
  • Blender or Immersion Blender: For smooth soup
  • Wooden spoon: Gentle stirring

Method
 

  1. Prep the Vegetables: Chop tomatoes, onion, and garlic
  2. Build the Base: Heat oil or butter and sauté onion for 5-7 minutes, until soft and translucent
  3. Add Garlic: Cook for 30- 60 seconds, until fragrant
  4. Add Tomatoes: Cook for 8- 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes release juices and begin breaking down
  5. Pour in Stock: Simmer on low heat for 20- 30 minutes, until tomatoes are fully softened and flavors are well blended
  6. Blend Until Smooth: Use immersion blender or blend in batches
  7. Finish with Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in cream or half-and-half gently. Do not boil after adding.
  8. Add Basil: Stir in chopped basil after turning off heat to preserve fresh flavor