Not every tomato soup needs to be smooth. Chunky tomato soup celebrates texture—juicy tomato pieces, tender vegetables, and satisfying bites that make every spoonful interesting. It's the kind of rustic, farmhouse soup that feels like a meal rather than just a first course.
While creamy tomato soups have their place, this version offers something different: the pleasure of actually chewing your soup, tasting distinct ingredients, and enjoying the contrast between soft vegetables and bright tomato pieces. It's comfort food with character.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of chunky tomato soup is its simplicity and straightforward satisfaction. Diced tomatoes (instead of crushed or pureed) maintain their shape during cooking. A generous amount of vegetables adds nutritional value and satisfying texture. Fresh herbs infuse the broth without overwhelming the natural tomato flavor. No blender required—just simmer and serve.
Building Great Texture
- Diced tomatoes: Use quality diced canned tomatoes that hold their shape, not crushed or pureed.
- Uniform vegetable cuts: Dice vegetables to similar sizes (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking and balanced bites.
- Don't overcook: Vegetables should be tender but not mushy. They'll continue softening in the hot soup.
- Fresh herbs: Add during the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve their bright flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Sauté the aromatics. Cook onion, celery, and carrots together until softened, about 8 minutes. This builds the flavor foundation.
- Bloom the seasonings. Add garlic, tomato paste, and herbs. Cooking briefly releases their flavors into the oil.
- Simmer gently. Add tomatoes and broth, then simmer 15 minutes. Don't boil vigorously or vegetables may break down too much.
- Season and serve. A touch of sugar balances acidity. Serve with plenty of crusty bread.
Vegetable Variations
Customize with what you have on hand:
- Summer version: Add zucchini, yellow squash, and fresh corn
- Mediterranean: Include bell peppers, olives, and capers
- Hearty fall: Add butternut squash and white beans
- Garden fresh: Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end
Serving Suggestions
Chunky tomato soup is hearty enough to be a main course with good bread. For a complete meal, serve over cooked pasta or rice, turning it into a tomato stew. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds savory depth. For extra protein, add cooked white beans or chickpeas.
Storage Tips
This soup stores and freezes exceptionally well because the vegetables maintain their texture better than in pureed soups. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making this an excellent make-ahead option.
Chunky Tomato Soup
Rustic soup with tomato pieces and tender vegetables.
Nutrition per Serving
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables. Heat oil over medium heat. Cook onion, celery, carrots 8 minutes until soft.
- Add aromatics. Add garlic, tomato paste, oregano, thyme. Cook 1 minute.
- Simmer. Add tomatoes with juices and broth. Bring to boil, reduce heat, simmer 15 minutes.
- Don't blend. Keep the chunky texture.
- Season and serve. Add sugar, salt, pepper. Garnish with parsley.
Recipe Notes
- Use diced (not crushed) tomatoes for best texture.
- Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Vegan and gluten-free as written.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes chunky tomato soup different from regular tomato soup?
Chunky tomato soup isn't blended, keeping visible pieces of tomato and vegetables for satisfying texture. It's more like a stew than a puree, offering bites to chew rather than just sipping.
Can I add meat to chunky tomato soup?
Absolutely! Cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or diced chicken are great additions. Brown the meat first, then add with the tomatoes for a heartier meal.
What vegetables work in chunky tomato soup?
Beyond onion, celery, and carrots, try zucchini, bell peppers, corn, or green beans. Cut vegetables small enough to fit on a spoon but large enough to provide texture.
How do I thicken chunky tomato soup?
Blend a portion (about 1/4) of the soup and stir it back in to thicken while keeping chunks. Alternatively, add a tablespoon of tomato paste or simmer longer to reduce.
Does chunky tomato soup freeze well?
Yes! The vegetables maintain their texture better than in pureed soups. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.