Tomato Consomme
A warm, flavorful tomato consomme blending rich tomato and herb notes, perfect as a light starter or soothing appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 14-oz. can chicken broth ⓘ
- 2 cups tomato juice or 11-1/2 oz. can V8 ⓘ
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme ⓘ
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Plain yogurt or sour cream (optional) ⓘ
- Parsley sprigs for garnish ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, tomato juice, chopped onion, tomato paste, thyme, basil, and allspice in a large saucepan.
- Simmer, uncovered, until the onion is soft, about 5-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Just before serving, top each bowl with a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream, and garnish with a sprig of parsley.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can substitute fresh basil with dried basil in a pinch—use 1 teaspoon instead of 1/4 cup. This consomme also pairs well with Mediterranean recipes, like a light salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the consomme hot, topped with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for creaminess. It makes a delightful starter for a meal or a light lunch. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a refreshing complement. This dish also works well as an accompaniment to a hearty main like Tomato Sage Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the consomme on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling as it can alter the flavor and texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a quick option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Consomme contains roughly 483 calories, with 19g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 692mg per serving (30% 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 vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian. It will still provide a flavorful base for the consomme, and you can enhance the taste with additional herbs and spices.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the broth and tomato juice are gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are included, and you can enjoy this delicious dish without any worries.
Can I freeze tomato consomme?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze tomato consomme. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove before serving.
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).