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There is something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of tomato and basil broth. Imagine the sun-ripened roma tomatoes roasted to perfection, their natural sweetness deepened by the caramelization of the oven. Paired with fragrant fresh basil and mellow roasted garlic, this broth is like a hug in a bowl nourishing your body and soul. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a starter for a special meal, this recipe delivers vibrant flavors layered with wholesome goodness that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Simple Homemade Tomato Basil Broth in 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A heartwarming tomato and basil broth featuring roasted roma tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a hint of balsamic vinegar perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
- 2½ pounds roma tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ⅓ cup chopped carrots
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 loosely packed cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the tomatoes cut side up, drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 1 hour until edges shrivel and insides remain juicy.
4. Heat remaining 2 tbsp olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
5. Add onions, carrots, garlic, and ½ tsp salt; cook until soft (~8 minutes).
6. Add tomatoes, vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and thyme; simmer 20 minutes.
7. Cool slightly and blend until smooth in batches.
8. Add basil and pulse to combine.
9. Season to taste, serve garnished with extra basil.
Notes
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
Roasting tomatoes enhances depth and sweetness.
Adjust balsamic vinegar for acidity balance.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 28 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting, simmering, blending
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients for Tomato Basil Broth
Here is everything you need to create this rich, aromatic broth. All of the ingredients come together beautifully to create a perfect balance of flavors:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roma tomatoes | 2½ pounds | Halved, for rich tomato flavor |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | ¼ cup | Use a high-quality EVOO like Graza Sizzle for cooking |
| Sea salt | To taste | Enhances flavor |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste | Adds a subtle spice |
| Medium yellow onion | 1 | Chopped, for sweetness and depth |
| Carrots | ⅓ cup | Chopped, adds natural sweetness |
| Garlic cloves | 4 | Chopped, for aromatic undertone |
| Vegetable broth | 3 cups | Provides savory base |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Adds acidity and complexity |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 teaspoon | For herbal notes |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 loosely packed cup | Plus extra for garnish |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these clear steps to bring out the best flavors in your tomato and basil broth:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the halved Roma tomatoes cut side up on the baking sheet. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Roast the tomatoes for 1 hour, until their edges begin to shrivel while the insides remain juicy.
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, garlic, and ½ teaspoon of salt to the pot. Cook for about 8 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aroma.
- Stir in the roasted tomatoes, vegetable broth, balsamic vinegar, and thyme leaves. Simmer gently for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Remove from heat and let the soup cool slightly. In batches if needed, blend until smooth.
- Add the fresh basil leaves to the blender and pulse just enough to combine them into the broth.
- Season to your taste with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a vibrant, fresh finish.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Broth Every Time
- Use quality olive oil: A premium extra-virgin olive oil like Graza Sizzle enhances the richness and adds a mellow flavor that complements the roasted tomatoes beautifully.
- Roasting is key: Don’t skip roasting the tomatoes; it deepens the flavor and adds complexity.
- Fresh herbs matter: Use fresh basil and thyme leaves for the most vibrant and fragrant broth.
- Blend to preferred texture: For a chunkier broth, pulse the blender fewer times; for a silky smooth texture, blend longer.
- Adjust acidity: If the broth tastes too sweet, add a splash more balsamic vinegar for balance.
- Serve warm: This broth is best enjoyed warm and fresh, perfect for chilly evenings or light meals.
Conclusion
Your Tomato and Basil Broth is more than just a soup – it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients and simple techniques that reward you with rich, layered flavors. This recipe is perfect for anyone who appreciates the elegance of fresh produce and the heartiness of a good broth. By using quality olive oil and fresh herbs, you ensure every spoonful is full of sunshine and comfort. Try this recipe to warm your kitchen and your heart while sharing the goodness with loved ones.