Old World Tomato Soup
A hearty, comforting tomato soup infused with smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and a hint of curry, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook celery and onion in butter until tender.
- Add tomatoes, chicken broth, seasonings, and cornstarch mixed with water.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
- Stir in crumbled cooked bacon.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you're short on time, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh ones. To make this soup heartier, add cooked pasta or rice. You can also substitute the bacon with pancetta or omit it for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
This Old World Tomato Soup is delightful when served with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad or a side of Brunch Eggs Sunny-Side Up for a comforting brunch. Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover the bowl to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old World Tomato Soup contains roughly 280 calories, with 10g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1149mg per serving (50% 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 use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes for this recipe. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding them to the soup. Fresh tomatoes will give the soup a vibrant flavor, especially during peak tomato season.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! To make this soup vegan, simply omit the bacon and butter. Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the vegetables, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The soup will still be hearty and flavorful without the meat.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup turns out too thin, you can thicken it by blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender, or by adding more cornstarch mixed with water. Allow the soup to simmer after adding the thickener to help it reach your desired consistency.
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).