Creamy tomato basil soup with tarallies

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes, with juice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
  • 1 cup or Rallini’s tarallies, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  2. Add Tomatoes:

    • Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes along with their juice, using a spoon to break them up slightly.

  3. Simmer the Soup:

    • Stir in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

  4. Add Basil and Seasonings:

    • Add the fresh basil leaves, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

  5. Blend the Soup:

    • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.

  6. Stir in Cream:

    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Warm through, making sure not to bring it to a boil after adding the cream.

  7. Prepare the Rallini’s Tarallies:

    • While the soup is simmering, place the tarallies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until they are toasty and warm.

  8. Serve:

    • Taste and adjust the seasoning of the soup if necessary.
    • Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing each with a few warm tarallies, additional basil leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

The warm, toasty Rallinies add a delightful crunch to the creamy soup, making for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Enjoy your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with a unique Italian twist!