Ingredients:

  • 30ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 large carrot, finely shredded
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 800g canned San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
  • 475ml vegetable broth
  • 0.5 tsp sea salt
  • 0.25 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 120ml half-and-half
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze

Instructions:

  1. Heat 30ml extra virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and shredded carrot. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until the onions are translucent and the carrots have softened into the oil. Note: This creates your flavor base.
  2. Add the 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp tomato paste. Stir constantly for 60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and the paste turns a deep mahogany color.
  3. Pour in the 800g of San Marzano tomatoes, crushing them manually with a spatula to release the juices, then add the 475ml of vegetable broth.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until the liquid has slightly reduced and the flavors intensify.
  5. Turn off the heat entirely. This is a crucial Chef's Tip to prevent the basil from turning bitter.
  6. Stir in the 1 cup of packed fresh basil leaves. Let them wilt into the hot liquid for 2 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
  7. Pour in the 120ml of half and half and the 1 tbsp of balsamic glaze.
  8. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Process until the soup is completely smooth and emulsified.
  9. Taste the soup. Add your 0.5 tsp sea salt and 0.25 tsp pepper now, adjusting if you need a bit more pop.
  10. Serve immediately while the aroma is at its peak. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe: Ready in 20 Minutes — Master this creamy garlic parmesan pasta recipe with our step-by-step timing ...Easy One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken in 30 Minutes — Master easy one pan lemon garlic chicken with our step-by-step timing guide. ...Simple No Bake Chocolate Cookies in 40 Minutes — Master simple no bake chocolate cookies with our step-by-step timing guide. T... $img_2$