Nora'S Homemade Tomato Soup
A comforting homemade tomato soup with creamy sweetness from condensed milk, perfect for cozy gatherings or quick lunches, appealing to all tomato lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring tomatoes, water, salt, and pepper to a boil in a large pot.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes; then remove from heat.
- Add baking soda, stirring constantly to prevent overflow.
- When bubbling stops, return to low heat and add the margarine or butter.
- Stir well until melted and smooth.
- Serve hot, optionally with oyster crackers or saltines.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the soup while it simmers. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute half of the condensed milk with heavy cream. Be cautious with the baking soda, as it can cause the soup to bubble up quickly. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you use canned tomatoes that are already salted.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup hot, and consider pairing it with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a classic combo. For a twist, serve it with oyster crackers or saltines on the side. This soup also pairs beautifully with Texas Size Chocolate Chip Cookies for a delightful dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nora'S Homemade Tomato Soup contains roughly 373 calories, with 9g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 4-5 medium tomatoes. Blanch them first to remove the skins, then chop and use them in place of the canned tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes will give a brighter flavor to the soup.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it doesn't include meat. However, ensure that the condensed milk you use is vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan version, substitute the condensed milk with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
What can I add to make the soup heartier?
To make the soup heartier, consider adding cooked pasta, rice, or lentils. You can also incorporate cooked vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach. These additions will enhance the texture and nutritional value of the soup, creating a more filling meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).