Soup Recipes

Basil Soup Recipe

Let me take you on a flavorful journey where the fragrant aroma of fresh basil leaves fills the kitchen, and the warmth of a delicious, creamy soup comforts your soul. Basil soup-simple yet satisfying-is a dish that brings together vibrant green basil, a touch of garlic, and some of the finest ingredients you can have in a kitchen. If you’re looking for something fresh, fragrant, and just a little bit different from your usual soup routine, this basil soup recipe might be your new go-to.

Basil, often associated with Italian cuisine, has a distinct, aromatic flavor profile that makes it the perfect herb to feature in a soup. When blended with the right combination of ingredients, it’s like having a bowl of sunshine in a cup-light, refreshing, and slightly savory, but still comforting. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cool evening or as an appetizer at your next dinner party, this basil soup is sure to impress.

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In this recipe, we’re going to explore not just how to make the soup but also dive deep into some expert tips, ingredient insights, and possible variations to tailor it to your taste. Let’s start cooking!

Basil Soup Recipe

This recipe yields a deliciously smooth, creamy basil soup that can be served hot or cold. It’s surprisingly easy to make, but it packs a big punch in terms of flavor. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and vegetable stock creates a savory base that is enhanced with cream for that extra indulgence. If you want to add a little more depth to your soup, you can even throw in some Parmesan for that rich, umami flavor.

Ingredients Needed

To make a great basil soup, you don’t need a long list of ingredients. However, each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Fresh Basil: About 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, packed. This will be the star of your soup, offering that unmistakable fresh, peppery flavor.
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Garlic adds that savory punch and depth, balancing the brightness of the basil.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. It helps sauté the garlic and creates a smooth base for the soup.
  • Yellow Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup, balancing out the herbal notes.
  • Vegetable Broth: 4 cups. This forms the foundation of your soup. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, vegetable broth is your best bet, but chicken broth works too for a heartier flavor.
  • Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and chopped. Potatoes will help thicken the soup, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.
  • Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup. This adds a richness and creaminess to the soup that makes it feel luxurious.
  • Salt & Pepper: To taste. The seasoning will bring out the best in all the flavors.
  • Lemon Juice: Optional, but a little squeeze of lemon will brighten the flavors and give the soup a zesty finish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Optional, for garnish. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan will add a salty, umami kick.

Cooking Instructions

Making basil soup is a relatively straightforward process, but the key is in layering the flavors and cooking them just right. Here’s how you can get this recipe from the cutting board to your bowl:

  1. Prep The Ingredients

    • Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes, onion, and garlic. Set them aside. Wash and pat dry the basil leaves.

  2. Sauté The Aromatics

    • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it softens and turns translucent.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

  3. Cook The Potatoes

    • Toss the chopped potatoes into the pot and stir everything together. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, just to slightly brown them and absorb some of the flavors.

  4. Simmer The Soup

    • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

  5. Add The Basil

    • Add the fresh basil leaves and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the basil to infuse the broth with its fragrant oils.

  6. Blend The Soup

    • Once everything is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches) to blend the soup until it’s completely smooth.

  7. Finish With Cream

    • Stir in the heavy cream for that velvety texture and richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

  8. Serve And Garnish

    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few extra basil leaves for a pop of color.

Ingredient Insights

The ingredients in this basil soup are simple, yet each one plays a critical role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s a closer look:

  • Basil: Fresh basil is essential for this recipe. Dried basil will not give you the same punchy flavor, so make sure you use fresh, vibrant leaves.
  • Potatoes: Potatoes are used here to thicken the soup without adding any extra heaviness. They also give it a creamy texture when blended, making the soup satisfying but light.
  • Heavy Cream: Adding cream to your soup enhances the mouthfeel, making it feel richer and more decadent. However, for a lighter version, you could substitute with coconut cream or oat milk.
  • Vegetable Broth: Opt for a high-quality vegetable broth if possible, as it forms the backbone of the soup. You could also make your own, but store-bought works fine.

Expert Tips

Want to elevate your basil soup to next-level greatness? Here are some expert tips to help you out:

  • Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil will give you the brightest, most aromatic flavor. If you can’t get fresh basil, try using other herbs like mint or tarragon for a unique twist.
  • Don’t Overcook the Basil: Add the basil at the very end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and fresh taste. Overcooking it will cause it to lose its potency.
  • Let the Soup Sit: Like many soups, basil soup often tastes even better the next day. Let it cool, store it in an airtight container, and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge.
  • Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick after blending, you can thin it out with extra vegetable broth or a splash of water.
  • Make it Vegan: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Recipe Variations

While this basil soup recipe is perfect as-is, you can easily adjust it based on your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few variations to try:

  • Tomato Basil Soup: Add some chopped tomatoes (about 2 cups) to the mix for a classic tomato-basil combo.
  • Spicy Basil Soup: Spice things up with a small chopped chili or a dash of red pepper flakes.
  • Coconut Basil Soup: Replace the cream with coconut milk for a silky, tropical twist. This pairs wonderfully with lime juice.
  • Cheese Lovers’ Basil Soup: For an even richer, cheesy experience, stir in some cream cheese or grated mozzarella in addition to Parmesan.
  • Pasta Basil Soup: Add some small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini to the soup for added texture and substance.

Final Words

Basil soup is the kind of recipe that can be as simple or as luxurious as you want it to be. Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or looking for a comforting bowl of creamy goodness, this recipe can deliver it all. It’s quick, easy, and packed with fresh flavors that are perfect for almost any occasion.

It’s also a perfect dish to make in batches and store for later-perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

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