Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup

Name: Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making my Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup, especially as the weekend rolls around. There's something incredibly satisfying about taking the time to let the tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices blend into a rich and velvety soup. It fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma that not only warms the heart but also sets the perfect mood for a cozy meal. Whether I’m serving it on its own or with a side of crusty bread, this soup always reminds me of lazy Sunday afternoons spent with loved ones.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:16:03.575Z

When I first decided to experiment with slow simmering, my expectations were high, but the results were beyond what I had hoped for. The key is to use fresh, ripe tomatoes and allow them to cook down slowly, enhancing their natural sweetness. I discovered that adding a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity beautifully, transforming the soup into a delightful dish.

To elevate the flavor profile, I like to toss in a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving. It adds a surprising depth that complements the tomatoes perfectly. Don’t rush this recipe; the longer you let it simmer, the better it becomes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavors developed through slow cooking
Comforting aroma that fills your home
Perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The freshness and ripeness of your tomatoes are crucial for the best flavor in this soup. Look for deep red, firm tomatoes with a slight give when pressed. If fresh tomatoes are not in season, you can substitute with high-quality canned tomatoes for a similar flavor—just be sure to choose those without added sugars or preservatives.

Onions and garlic form the aromatic base of this soup, enhancing its depth. Use yellow or white onions for sweetness, and don’t skimp on the garlic; it balances the acidity of the tomatoes. If you want a slightly sweeter soup, caramelizing the onions before adding them to the pot can significantly enrich the flavor.

The vegetable broth not only adds liquid but also contributes to the overall taste. Homemade broth is best, but a low-sodium store-bought version works fine. Adjusting the salt later will help you control the final taste without overpowering the freshness of the tomatoes.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

The slow simmering is key to this recipe; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A low simmer over about 1.5 to 2 hours will develop a rich, deep taste. Keep an eye on the pot to ensure it doesn’t boil; the bubbles should just be breaking the surface. Stir occasionally to prevent the veggies from sticking to the bottom.

Blending the soup to a creamy consistency is where the magic happens. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches to prevent splattering. Aim for a texture that is smooth and silky, which you can achieve best with an immersion blender, as it’s quick and mess-free.

For those who enjoy a bit of texture, reserve some diced tomatoes before blending. You can stir them back in after blending to provide a pleasant contrast. This method gives the soup character while still keeping the overall creamy consistency.

Serving and Storing

Serving this soup with a garnish of fresh basil not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic notes. For an added creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can make this dish even more satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread for a delightful combination that is perfect for chilly days.

This soup stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container, where it can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, consider adding a splash more broth or water to regain its creamy texture. Just heat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid scorching.

Feel free to experiment with variations by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers, carrots, or even a splash of cream for a richer profile. Herbs such as thyme or oregano can also be introduced during the simmering phase to create your signature take on this comforting classic.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your flavorful soup!

Main Ingredients

2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for the best experience.

Cooking Directions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfect pot of tomato soup!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Simmer for Flavor

Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking will enhance the flavors wonderfully.

Blend to Perfection

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend it in batches using a regular blender.

Final Touches

Stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar to balance the acidity. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Your delicious Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup is ready to enjoy! Perfect with a slice of bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions. This will give your soup a subtle smokiness that complements the tomatoes beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out too acidic, which can happen depending on your tomatoes, adding a pinch more sugar can balance the flavors. Conversely, if it's too sweet, a dash more balsamic vinegar can help cut through the sweetness and brighten the overall taste, enhancing the tomato’s natural tartness.

For those who find their soup too thin, you can thicken it by mixing in a cornstarch slurry—1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water—add it slowly while stirring and simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency. A longer simmer can also naturally intensify the soup's body as the liquid reduces.

If your soup has been blended but still feels a bit grainy, it may need a second round in the blender to achieve a velvety texture. Blending in batches can sometimes leave inconsistencies, so ensure each batch is thoroughly pureed before combining back into your pot.

Flavors That Pair Well

This soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. A sprinkle of croutons, crisped in olive oil, adds texture while enhancing the overall dish. Additionally, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness and introduce some brightness.

If you're looking to amplify the soup's flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper for a gentle heat that complements the tomatoes beautifully. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice right before serving can add a fresh burst that lifts the flavors to new heights.

Wine lovers might enjoy a glass of Merlot or Chianti with this soup. The fruity notes and moderate acidity of these wines enhance the rich tomato flavor without overpowering it, creating a harmonious dining experience. A light, crisp white wine could also be a refreshing contrast.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe is quite straightforward. Simply double or halve the ingredient quantities based on your needs. The cooking time may vary slightly if you're significantly increasing the volume; however, keep the simmering duration close to the original 1.5 to 2 hours for optimal flavor development.

If preparing for a larger crowd, consider using a large stockpot or a slow cooker. For the latter, follow the same sauté steps on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low. This method makes it even easier to meld the flavors while freeing up your stove top.

For smaller servings, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers in single-serve portions, making it easy to grab and reheat for a quick meal during the week. Just be sure to label them clearly with the date, as frozen soup is best consumed within three months for the best taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be a great substitute, especially in the off-season. Use a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

→ How can I store leftover soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making this soup entirely vegan.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the soup for added nutrition and flavor.