How to make Creamy Tomato Soup & Cheesy Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Tomato Soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
For the Cheesy Cheddar Bay Dumplings:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Directions:
Make the Creamy Tomato Soup:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. (You can also transfer it to a blender, but be careful with hot liquids.)
Return the soup to low heat to keep warm while you make the dumplings.
Make the Cheesy Cheddar Bay Dumplings:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and garlic powder.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter and milk. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the warm soup. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for about 10 minutes. They should puff up and become soft.
Serve:
Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls, ensuring a few dumplings are included. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Soup & Cheesy Cheddar Bay Dumplings
This creamy tomato soup paired with cheesy cheddar bay dumplings is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The soup is rich and comforting, warming your soul on cold days. The dumplings add a wonderful cheesy twist that takes this dish to the next level. This meal is quick to make, simple, and satisfies all ages.
You will also enjoy how adaptable this recipe is. You can easily modify ingredients to match your preferences.
Nutriment Benefits
Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and K, tomatoes also provide antioxidants like lycopene, which is excellent for heart health.
Cream: While it’s not the lightest ingredient, heavy cream adds a rich texture and provides fat, which helps the body absorb nutrients from other ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, cheddar can contribute to bone health when consumed in moderation.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley not only add flavor but also provide vitamins and antioxidants.
What to Serve With Creamy Tomato Soup & Cheesy Cheddar Bay Dumplings
This satisfying dish can stand alone, but you may want to enhance your meal with:
A simple side salad for freshness.
Grilled cheese sandwiches for an extra classic twist.
Crispy bread sticks to dip into the soup.
How to Store Creamy Tomato Soup & Cheesy Cheddar Bay Dumplings
If you have leftovers, store the soup and dumplings separately:
In the fridge: You can keep the tomato soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The dumplings can also stay fresh for the same time but may lose some of their fluffy texture.
In the freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake: Overcooking the garlic can make it bitter. So, keep an eye on it while it’s sautéing.
Tip: Use fresh tomatoes when in season for a fresher taste.
Tip: Don’t overmix the dumpling batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
Mistake: Make sure to cover the pot when cooking the dumplings to steam properly.
Variation
You can make the soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
For a little spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the soup.
If you prefer, substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or an alternative cheese of your choice.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove before adding in the dumplings.
Q2: How do I reheat the leftover soup?
Reheat it on the stove over medium heat while stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
Q3: Can I freeze the cheesy cheddar bay dumplings?
Yes, but they can lose some texture. It’s best to freeze the soup separately and make the dumplings fresh when you reheat the soup.
This delightful Creamy Tomato Soup and Cheesy Cheddar Bay Dumplings will not only warm your body but also fill your heart with comfort. Try this easy recipe today, and enjoy the delightful flavors!