When Britain's beloved culinary queen Dame Mary Berry shares a recipe, home cooks across the nation take notice. Her latest offering is a beautifully simple tomato soup that proves extraordinary flavour doesn't require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
This isn't just another tomato soup recipe - it's Mary Berry's carefully perfected version that balances sweetness, acidity, and richness in perfect harmony. What makes it truly special is its versatility; it works equally well as a quick family supper or as the starter for a dinner party when you want to impress.
The Secret to Mary's Flavourful Base
The magic begins with gently frying chopped onions until they're soft and translucent, then adding garlic for that essential aromatic depth. Mary's clever addition of tomato purée creates an intense flavour foundation that elevates the entire dish.
Simple Ingredients, Spectacular Results
You'll need just a handful of pantry staples:
- Ripe, flavourful tomatoes (tinned work perfectly)
- One large onion
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Quality vegetable stock
- A touch of sugar to balance acidity
- Fresh basil for that final flourish
Mary's Pro Tips for Perfection
The cooking process is wonderfully straightforward, but Mary includes several chef's secrets that make all the difference:
- Don't rush the onion cooking - proper softening is crucial for sweetness
- Blend until completely smooth for that luxurious restaurant texture
- Season thoughtfully at the end to bring all the flavours together
What truly sets this recipe apart is its adaptability. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of double cream or crème fraîche just before serving. For those who enjoy a bit of texture, Mary suggests reserving some chopped fresh tomatoes to sprinkle over the top.
This tomato soup embodies Mary Berry's cooking philosophy: elegant food that's accessible to everyone, regardless of culinary skill level. In under thirty minutes, you can have a steaming bowl of comfort that tastes like summer captured in a spoon.
