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Mary Berry Tomato and Basil Soup

Mary Berry Tomato and Basil Soup
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Mary Berry’s tomato and basil soup is a creamy, velvety soup made with fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and basil, blended to perfection. The balance of sweetness from the tomatoes and the fragrant freshness of basil makes it an all-time favorite. Served hot or chilled, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Ingredients

  • Fresh tomatoes (1 kg, chopped, or 2 cans of chopped tomatoes) – The key ingredient for a rich, fresh flavor.
  • Onion (1 large, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
  • Garlic cloves (2, minced) – Enhances the overall taste.
  • Carrot (1, grated or finely chopped) – Adds natural sweetness.
  • Tomato purée (1 tbsp) – Deepens the tomato flavor.
  • Vegetable stock (750ml) – Forms the base of the soup.
  • Fresh basil leaves (a handful, plus extra for garnish) – Adds a fragrant, herby finish.
  • Olive oil (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the vegetables.
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Balances and enhances the flavors.
  • Double cream (100ml, optional) – For a creamy texture.
  • Sugar (½ tsp, optional) – Helps balance acidity if needed.

Instructions

  1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

  2. Add the tomatoes and tomato purée: Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and the tomato purée. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down.

  3. Pour in the stock: Add the vegetable stock, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. Blend the soup: Remove the soup from heat and blend using an immersion blender or transfer in batches to a blender until smooth. If you prefer an extra silky consistency, pass the soup through a sieve.

  5. Add basil and cream (optional): Stir in the fresh basil leaves and blend briefly to incorporate. If using, add the double cream for extra richness and stir well.

  6. Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the tomatoes are too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra basil leaves, and serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Find it online: https://britishbakingrecipes.co.uk/mary-berry-tomato-and-basil-soup/