Ember Kissed Tomato Soup

Delicious Fire Roasted Tomato Soup: Your Ultimate Comfort Bowl

If you’ve ever savored the rich, smoky goodness of the Fire Roasted Tomato Soup from Paradise Bakery, prepare to be amazed. This recipe captures that coveted flavor profile, bringing a bowl of pure comfort directly to your kitchen. Imagine fire-roasted tomatoes simmering gently with aromatic garlic and onion, blended seamlessly with savory broth and a touch of milk, creating a luxuriously creamy and flavorful soup that will utterly delight your taste buds.

Tomato soup is, without a doubt, the quintessential partner to a perfectly crispy grilled cheese sandwich. This classic pairing isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a warm embrace in a bowl that instantly soothes the soul. When faced with indecision at a restaurant, this comforting duo is often the go-to choice, promising satisfaction every time.

A bowl of creamy fire roasted tomato soup with a side of grilled cheese.

The Unmistakable Flavor of Fire Roasted Tomatoes

What truly elevates this recipe above a standard tomato soup is the star ingredient: fire-roasted canned tomatoes. If you haven’t experienced their unique depth of flavor, now is the time to stock your pantry. The process of fire-roasting imbues the tomatoes with a distinct smoky sweetness, a complexity that transforms a simple soup into something extraordinary. This robust, charred essence makes an undeniable difference, adding a layer of sophisticated flavor that’s both bold and comforting.

The preparation begins with a simple act of chopping and dicing, setting the stage for a medley of tomato flavors. Fire-roasted tomatoes, alongside regular canned tomatoes, rich tomato paste, and tangy tomato sauce, gently simmer with quality broth. This slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld and deepen, developing a harmonious blend that’s truly remarkable.

Close-up of fresh ingredients for fire roasted tomato soup on a cutting board.

Why Homemade Tomato Soup Reigns Supreme

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of homemade tomato soup, especially when paired with a crispy, golden grilled cheese. This creamy delight is a perfect antidote to a chilly day, offering warmth and flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t match. One of the greatest advantages of this particular recipe is its reliance on canned tomatoes, freeing you from the seasonal constraints of fresh produce. Even in the dead of winter, when juicy, ripe tomatoes are hard to come by, you can achieve an intensely flavorful soup that tastes like summer.

Crafting your own allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome and delicious meal free from unwanted additives. The depth of flavor developed through simmering the different forms of canned tomatoes is simply unmatched, providing a robust base that sings with every spoonful.

If you find yourself enamored with this fire-roasted tomato soup, you’ll surely love exploring other comforting creations. Be sure to check out our Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup, Tortellini Soup With Sausage, or our hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup for more delectable options.

A large pot of fire roasted tomato soup simmering on a stove.

Customizing Your Fire Roasted Tomato Soup (Bisque Style or Heartier)

This fire-roasted tomato soup recipe is wonderfully versatile. If you prefer a heartier, chunkier soup, don’t hesitate to personalize it. As you sauté the onions and garlic, consider adding other finely diced vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost both nutrition and texture. For an even more substantial meal, throw in some canned beans (like cannellini or kidney beans) or leftover cooked meat or chicken from your fridge.

You can also easily adapt the flavor profile to suit your cravings. While we suggest Mexican-inspired toppings like tortilla strips and sour cream, an Italian twist would be equally delicious. Imagine serving it with a dollop of fresh pesto, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and some crusty bread for dipping. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to truly make this recipe your own.

A beautifully garnished bowl of fire roasted tomato soup.

Essential Ingredients for an Unforgettable Fire Roasted Tomato Soup

Crafting this rich and creamy soup requires a handful of simple yet potent ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible depth of flavor that defines this dish. For a complete list with precise measurements, refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Various ingredients for tomato soup laid out on a table.

  • Onion: A large yellow onion, finely diced, provides a sweet and savory base. A white onion would also work beautifully.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic cloves offer an unparalleled aroma and pungent flavor. While jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, fresh is always recommended for the best results.
  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for sautéing the aromatics, imparting a subtle fruitiness, but any quality cooking oil will suffice.
  • Canned Tomatoes (Whole): San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes are often considered the gold standard for their balanced sweetness and low acidity, but any good quality whole canned tomatoes will yield excellent results.
  • Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: This is the secret weapon! We recommend Muir Glen Organic canned fire-roasted tomatoes for their consistent smoky flavor, but any brand of fire-roasted diced tomatoes will work wonders.
  • Tomato Sauce: Adds another layer of tomato depth and contributes to the soup’s smooth consistency, functioning almost like a tomato broth.
  • Tomato Paste: A concentrated form of tomato, tomato paste is essential for thickening the soup and intensifying the overall tomato flavor.
  • Chicken Stock: Provides a rich savory foundation. Feel free to use chicken broth as an alternative. For a vegetarian version, simply swap in vegetable broth or stock.
  • Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors. Adjust to your personal preference.
  • White Pepper: Offers a subtle peppery kick without the visible flecks of black pepper, maintaining the soup’s creamy color. Black pepper is a perfectly acceptable substitute if white pepper isn’t available.
  • Milk: We use Vitamin D (whole) milk for a rich and creamy texture. However, any type of milk you have on hand, from 2% to almond milk, can be used, adjusting the creaminess level accordingly. For an extra decadent soup, heavy cream or half-and-half can be substituted.
  • Optional Garnish: Tortilla Strips: Crispy tortilla strips (the kind often found with salads) add a delightful crunch and a touch of Tex-Mex flair.
  • Optional Garnish: Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy coolness that beautifully complements the rich, savory flavors of the tomato soup.

A close-up of a wooden spoon stirring the fire roasted tomato soup in a pot.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Creamy Fire Roasted Tomato Soup

This recipe is surprisingly simple to assemble, allowing you to achieve a gourmet-tasting soup with minimal effort. The flavors are allowed to meld and deepen through a gentle simmering process, resulting in a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying dish.

Step one: Sautéing diced onions in olive oil in a large pot.

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a large Dutch oven or a sturdy soup pot over medium heat. Add a generous swirl of olive oil, then toss in your diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent, typically about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavor of your soup.
  2. Step two: Adding canned tomatoes, paste, sauce, and chicken stock to the pot.

  3. Build the Flavor Base: Once the aromatics are softened, add all the canned tomatoes (whole and fire-roasted), tomato paste, tomato sauce, and chicken stock to the pot. Stir everything together to combine thoroughly, ensuring the tomato paste dissolves into the liquid.
  4. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for approximately 30 minutes. This crucial simmering period allows all the flavors to deepen and meld, creating a rich and cohesive taste.
  5. Step three: Pureeing the tomato soup in a blender until smooth.

  6. Puree for Creaminess: Carefully remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency – whether you prefer it velvety smooth or with a slight texture. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender (be extremely cautious when blending hot liquids, only filling the blender halfway and venting the lid).
  7. Final Touches: Return the pureed soup to the stovetop over low heat. Stir in the milk, sea salt, and white pepper. Continue to cook for another 15 minutes on low heat, allowing the milk to fully integrate and the flavors to marry beautifully. Do not boil once the milk is added.
  8. A hand garnishing a bowl of fire roasted tomato soup with tortilla strips and sour cream.

  9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish generously with crispy tortilla strips and a swirl of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve immediately and savor every delicious spoonful!

Storage Tips: Allow any leftover soup to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop.

A wide shot of a bowl of fire roasted tomato soup with a spoon and grilled cheese.

Preserve Your Favorite Recipe!

If you’re as passionate about this fire roasted tomato soup recipe as we are, make sure it’s always at your fingertips! Don’t let this culinary gem get lost in your tabs. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever a craving strikes!

Another close-up of a wooden spoon stirring fire roasted tomato soup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Roasted Tomato Soup

  • Do fire-roasted tomatoes taste different?

    Absolutely! Fire-roasted tomatoes undergo a special process where they are charred over an open flame before being canned. This roasting process caramelizes their sugars and infuses them with a distinct, slightly smoky, and sweeter flavor compared to regular canned tomatoes. This unique taste profile adds incredible depth to any dish, especially soups.

  • Are canned fire-roasted tomatoes hot or spicy?

    Generally, no. Unless the label specifically indicates the addition of chilies or other spices, fire-roasted tomatoes are not inherently hot or spicy. Their “fire-roasted” designation refers to the cooking method and the smoky flavor it imparts, not to heat or spice.

  • Are fire-roasted tomatoes the same as diced tomatoes?

    Not exactly. Fire-roasted tomatoes are typically diced tomatoes that have gone through the fire-roasting process. So, while they are often diced, the key differentiator is the charring method, which gives them their signature flavor. Regular diced tomatoes have not been exposed to the flame.

  • What can I use instead of fire-roasted tomatoes in soup?

    If fire-roasted tomatoes are unavailable, you can certainly use regular canned diced tomatoes or even fresh diced tomatoes. While your soup will still be delicious, it won’t have the same characteristic smoky depth that fire-roasted tomatoes provide. To mimic a bit of that smoky flavor, you could add a pinch of smoked paprika or a drop of liquid smoke (used sparingly) to your soup.

Creative Substitutions for Your Soup

When it comes to cooking, feel empowered to get creative! Don’t be afraid to experiment with substitutions to match your personal taste, dietary preferences, or what you simply have on hand. Make this recipe truly your own!

  • You can elevate the creaminess and richness of this soup by substituting heavy cream or half-and-half for the milk. This will result in a more decadent, bisque-like consistency.
  • Instead of chicken or vegetable broth, consider using bone broth. Any type – beef, chicken, or even mushroom – will add an extra layer of savory depth and potential health benefits to your soup.
  • If you don’t have tortilla strips for garnish, crumbled tortilla chips work just as well for that satisfying crunch. You can also opt to leave them off entirely or substitute with homemade croutons for a different texture.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Tomato Soup

  • Blender Choices: If you don’t own an immersion blender, a regular countertop blender or food processor works perfectly for pureeing the soup. Remember to blend in batches and be cautious with hot liquids.
  • Deepen the Flavor: For an even richer, more complex flavor, add a bay leaf to the pot while the soup simmers. Just be sure to remove it before pureeing the soup.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds a vibrant touch of color but also boosts the flavor. For a classic Italian tomato basil soup, stir in plenty of fresh chopped basil at the end of cooking and serve with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese and some crusty bread.
  • Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during the simmering stage. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
  • Crunchy Topping: Enhance the texture with some crunch! In addition to tortilla strips, try adding homemade croutons for a satisfying bite.

Caprese salad on a white square serving plate

Explore More Delicious Recipes

If you love the fresh, vibrant flavors of tomatoes, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes:

  • Caprese Salad – Tomatoes With Mozzarella and Basil
  • Zucchini and Tomatoes
  • Fresh Tomato Bruschetta
  • Tomato Cracker Salad
  • Tomato Pie

An appetizing close-up of fire roasted tomato soup in a bowl, ready to be eaten.

If soup is your ultimate comfort food, this creamy fire-roasted tomato soup is an absolute must-add to your regular rotation. Its rich, velvety texture and profoundly comforting twist on classic tomato soup are guaranteed to have everyone eagerly asking for second helpings. Prepare for a new favorite!

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Fire Roasted Tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich halved and a spoon in a white bowl.

Fire Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe

Fire Roasted tomatoes make for a perfect tomato soup.

Prep Time: 3 mins | Cook Time: 55 mins | Total Time: 58 mins

Course: Soup | Cuisine: American | Keyword: Fire Roasted Tomato Soup

Servings: 8 servings | Calories: 280 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

  • 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
  • Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Classic Red Enamel Dutch Oven (Island Spice Red)
  • AmazonBasics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
  • Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Lid, 8-Quart
  • (12 inch) Stainless Steel Soup Ladle
  • Cuisinart Stick Hand Blender

Ingredients

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • 2 (28 ounce) cans of San Marzano whole tomatoes
  • 1 (28 ounce) can of Muir Glen Organic fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 2 (8 ounce) cans of tomato sauce
  • 2 (6 ounce) cans of tomato paste
  • 2 (32 ounce) containers of chicken stock
  • 3 teaspoons of sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon of white pepper
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • Optional Garnish: tortilla strips and sour cream

Instructions

  1. Saute onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
  2. Add tomatoes, paste, sauce, and chicken stock.
  3. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 30 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and puree in a blender until tomatoes are desired consistency.
  5. Add milk and seasonings and cook for another 15 minutes on low.
  6. Serve topped with tortilla strips (the ones that you find for salads) and sour cream.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 280 kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 1636mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 26g

This recipe was originally posted on February 2, 2012. It has been updated to improve user experience and reshared on February 15, 2024.