Homemade Heinz Soup Cream of Tomato 13.2 Ounce Cans Recipe: A Creamier, Healthier Take on the Classic

Category: Soup

Introduction

Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup is a beloved classic, with its origins dating back to the early 20th century. This iconic soup has become a staple in pantries worldwide, cherished for its velvety texture, rich tomato flavor, and comforting warmth. However, store-bought versions often contain added preservatives, high sodium, and refined sugars. By making it at home, you can enjoy a fresher, healthier version tailored to your taste preferences while maintaining that signature Heinz flavor.

In this recipe, we’ll recreate the unmistakable taste of Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup using fresh, wholesome ingredients. The result is a soup that’s not only delicious but also customizable, allowing you to adjust the sodium, sugar, and spice levels to suit your dietary needs. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and freezes beautifully for a quick meal any time.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own Cream of Tomato Soup at home offers several advantages:

• Healthier Ingredients: Reduce sodium, cut down on added sugars, and use fresh tomatoes for more nutrients.
• Customization: Adjust the creaminess, spice level, and seasoning to your liking.
• Cost-Effective: Making a batch at home can be more economical than buying multiple cans.
• Freshness: Enjoy the vibrant flavor of freshly cooked tomatoes without preservatives.

Personal Anecdote

I remember growing up, Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup was a comfort food staple in my house. My mom would often serve it with a swirl of cream and a side of crusty bread. But when I started paying attention to food labels, I realized how much sodium and sugar were packed into each can. That’s when I decided to create my own version. After countless trials and tweaks, I landed on this recipe, which captures the essence of the original but with a healthier, homemade touch. It’s now a favorite in my household, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:30 minutes
• **Total Time:45 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings (equivalent to 2 cans of Heinz Soup)

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 3 lbs (1.36 kg) fresh tomatoes (or 2 cups/475ml of crushed tomatoes)
• 2 cups (475ml) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flour

Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups/250g)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches:

• 1 tbsp (15g) granulated sugar (or to taste, optional)
• 2 tbsp (30ml) freshly chopped basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

• Prepare the Tomatoes:
  If using fresh tomatoes, core and chop them into large chunks. If using canned crushed tomatoes, skip to step - 2. Sauté the Aromatics:
  In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

• Cook the Tomatoes:
  Add the fresh or canned tomatoes to the saucepan. Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. If using fresh tomatoes, cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

• Blend the Mixture:
  Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer the mixture to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the saucepan.

• Thicken the Soup:
  In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and a splash of the broth until smooth. Stir this mixture into the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.

• Add Cream and Sugar:
  Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and granulated sugar (if using). Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken further.

• Taste and Adjust:
  Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes.

• Serve:
  Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a swirl of cream on top.

Variations

• Low-Sodium Version: Use no-salt-added broth and reduce the added salt.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use a non-dairy cream alternative.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick.
• Smoky Version: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of tomato paste for deeper flavor.

Pro Tips

• Roasted Tomatoes: For enhanced flavor, roast fresh tomatoes in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes before using them in the recipe.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of tomato paste for a more intense tomato flavor.
• Texture Tip: For an ultra-smooth soup, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the cream.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
  Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes will give a brighter, fresher flavor. Just be sure to cook them down until softened.

• What can I do if the soup is too thick?
  Stir in a little more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Can I make this vegan?
  Yes! Replace butter with a vegan alternative and use a non-dairy cream.

• How long does it keep in the fridge?
  This soup will last up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

• Can I scale the recipe?
  Yes! Simply double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve with a side of grilled cheese dippers or crusty bread.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of basil, parsley, or chives for a fresh touch.
• Add Some Heat: Stir in a spoonful of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Meal Prep: Pack in thermoses for a comforting lunch on the go.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup captures the essence of the original while offering a fresher, healthier alternative. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and customizable ingredients, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade meal that’s just as comforting as the store-bought version—but better!

Let me know how it turns out, and don’t hesitate to share your own tweaks and tips!