Tomato Dumpling Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor, look no further than this Tomato Dumpling Soup! This recipe has been a favorite in my kitchen, especially during those chilly evenings when all you want is something comforting. The combination of sweet potatoes and creamy dumplings creates a delightful balance that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

I love how this soup embraces simplicity while still delivering on taste. Each spoonful feels like a hug from the inside out. Let’s dive in and create some magic in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy dumplings floating in the rich tomato broth.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and reheat whenever you’re ready to enjoy.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of sweet potato, fresh basil, and herbs creates a comforting flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Filling and nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is both satisfying and good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Tomato Dumpling Soup is easy-peasy! You’ll find these simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create a hearty meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 25 grams butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• ½ sweet potato, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn
• 2 (400g) cans chopped tomatoes
• 500ml chicken stock
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 50ml single cream

For the Dumplings

• 125g dried breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 75g mature cheddar, grated
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 egg
• 50g cream cheese

Variations

This Tomato Dumpling Soup is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
• Swap the cheese: Try using a different cheese like mozzarella or feta for varied flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you enjoy some heat in your soup.
• Use vegetable stock: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock.

How to Make Tomato Dumpling Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the chopped onion and sweet potato, cooking them gently for about 5-10 minutes until they become soft. This step is crucial because it brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to your soup.

Step 2: Add Flavors

Next, stir in the minced garlic and ground cinnamon. Cook for just one minute until fragrant—this will infuse your soup with lovely aromatics. Then add the torn basil leaves along with the chopped tomatoes and chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer covered for 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings

While your soup simmers away, it’s time to mix up those delightful dumplings! In a bowl, combine all dumpling ingredients until you form a stiff mixture. Shape them into about eight balls—this is where they get their adorable shape!

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Now comes the fun part! Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a regular blender), blend your soup until smooth. Taste it and adjust with sugar, salt, pepper, and cream as desired. This creamy texture will be the perfect base for your fluffy dumplings.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop those cute dumplings into your simmering soup without stirring—this helps them cook evenly. Let them simmer away for about 10 minutes until they are cooked through.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

When ready to serve, dish out two dumplings per bowl along with that luscious tomato broth. Enjoy this comforting Tomato Dumpling Soup warm alongside some crusty bread or simply on its own!

With every bite of this soul-warming soup topped with cheesy dumplings, you’ll find yourself smiling brighter—even on the coldest days! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Tomato Dumpling Soup

Making the perfect Tomato Dumpling Soup is all about those little touches that make a big difference. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out comforting and delicious every time!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil really enhances the flavor of your soup, adding brightness and depth that dried herbs just can’t match.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes helps develop the flavors. This step ensures that the sweet notes from the sweet potato shine through while melding beautifully with the tomatoes.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and sugar as needed. Every tomato brand varies, so this step helps you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
• Make dumplings ahead of time: If you’re short on time, feel free to prepare your dumplings in advance! They can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to add them to your soup.
• Experiment with cheese: While mature cheddar is delightful, feel free to try different cheeses like mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative if you wish to mix things up while keeping it cheesy!

How to Serve Tomato Dumpling Soup

Serving Tomato Dumpling Soup is an opportunity to get creative and make it visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few whole leaves on top not only looks gorgeous but also adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Grated cheese: A sprinkle of extra cheese on top just before serving will melt slightly into the warm soup, creating a rich finish.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or rolls is perfect for dipping into your delicious soup, soaking up all those lovely flavors.
• Green salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a sweet and savory crunch that complements the soft dumplings beautifully.
• Garlic breadsticks: These are great for adding a bit more crunch and flavor alongside each bowl of hearty soup.

Enjoy this cozy Tomato Dumpling Soup with friends or family, making mealtime a warm gathering filled with laughter and love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tomato Dumpling Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool fully before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a lid or plastic wrap.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this comforting recipe!

Can I make Tomato Dumpling Soup vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use non-dairy cream and cheese alternatives. This will still give you a delightful flavor without animal products.

How long does Tomato Dumpling Soup last in the fridge?

Tomato Dumpling Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I add other vegetables to my Tomato Dumpling Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like—carrots, bell peppers, or spinach would all work beautifully alongside the tomatoes and sweet potatoes.

What can I serve with Tomato Dumpling Soup?

This soup is fantastic on its own but pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this cozy Tomato Dumpling Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl—a perfect companion for chilly evenings. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, I’m sure you’ll love every spoonful. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!