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Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: Cozy Comfort Food
Introduction
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of tomato soup on a chilly day. This creamy vegan version is made with simple, wholesome ingredients and delivers a burst of comforting flavor in every spoonful. The addition of grilled cheese croutons adds a delightful crunch and cheesy goodness that elevates this soup to the next level.
Why You'll Love This Soup
Easy and Flavorful: This soup comes together quickly with pantry staples and fresh tomatoes.
Creamy and Vegan: Cashews create a luxuriously creamy texture without any dairy.
Comforting Classic: This recipe is a vegan twist on a beloved comfort food.
Grilled Cheese Goodness: The crispy grilled cheese croutons add a delightful crunch and cheesy flavor.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 1/2 cup raw cashews
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:
* 4 slices bread
* Vegan cheese slices
* Vegan butter or olive oil
Instructions
* Soak cashews in hot water for 30 minutes. Drain and rinse.
* Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
* Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
* Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
* While soup is simmering, prepare the grilled cheese croutons. Spread vegan butter or olive oil on one side of each bread slice. Top two slices with vegan cheese. Place the remaining bread slices on top to create sandwiches.
* Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cheese is melted. Cut into cubes.
* Transfer soup to a blender and add soaked cashews. Blend until smooth and creamy.
* Return soup to the pot and heat through.
* Serve hot, topped with grilled cheese croutons.
Tips and Variations
* Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion
This creamy vegan tomato soup with grilled cheese croutons is a comforting and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're vegan or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying soup, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.