Looking for a quick, soulwarming bowl that feels like a hug in a ladle? Jamie Olivers 5ingredient tomato soup delivers just that fresh tomatoes, a splash of olive oil, and a handful of bread turn a simple pantry into a cozy dinner in under 30 minutes. No fuss, no waste, and plenty of room for your own twists.
Ingredients List
Heres everything you need. Stick to the basics first, then feel free to sprinkle in your favorite extras.
Core ingredients
- 1kg ripe tomatoes (fresh, cherry or plum the juicier, the better)
- 12 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced (adds a natural sweetness)
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 slices stale crusty bread (or a small baguette)
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
- Extravirgin olive oil, seasalt, freshly ground black pepper
Optional extras (keep it light)
| Ingredient | Why add it? | Typical amount |
|---|---|---|
| Crme frache | Extra creaminess (or use oat milk for vegan) | 2Tbsp |
| Balsamic vinegar | Brightens acidity | 1tsp |
| Red chilli flakes | Gentle heat | tsp |
Cooking Steps
Grab a sturdy pot, roll up your sleeves, and lets get cooking. The whole process takes roughly 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight when youre craving comfort but short on time.
Preprep
Halve the tomatoes, dice the carrot and celery, and crumble the stale bread into bitesize pieces. A quick rinse of the basil leaves under cold water keeps them fresh and fragrant.
Base building
- Sweat the aromatics: Warm 2Tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, carrot, and celery. Stir for 23minutes until theyre soft and fragrant (dont let the garlic brown it can turn bitter).
- Add the tomatoes: Drop the halved tomatoes into the pot, sprinkle a pinch of seasalt, and give everything a good stir. Let the tomatoes break down for about 56minutes, crushing them with the back of a wooden spoon as they soften.
- Introduce the bread: Toss the stale bread pieces in. Theyll absorb the juices and start to melt, naturally thickening the soup without any cream.
Simmer & blend
| Time | Action | Tip (EEAT) |
|---|---|---|
| 02min | Heat oil, add garlic | Keep garlic from burning a quick stir helps. |
| 28min | Saut carrot & celery | Sweating releases natural sugars; see Jamies official recipe for confirmation. |
| 812min | Add tomatoes, pinch of salt | Crush tomatoes gently for even cooking. |
| 1220min | Simmer, add bread | Bread dissolves into a velvety base avoid overcooking to prevent graininess. |
| 2025min | Blend until smooth | Use an immersion blender for texture control. |
| 2530min | Finish with basil, oil, pepper | Let the soup rest a minute for flavors to meld. |
Finishing touches
Stir in the torn basil leaves, a drizzle of extravirgin olive oil, and season with black pepper to taste. If you love a silkier mouthfeel, swirl in a spoonful of crme frache at this stage.
Flavor Variations
One of the joys of Jamies approach is that the base is flexible. Here are a couple of popular twists that keep the soup feeling fresh.
Roasted tomato version
Halve the tomatoes, toss them with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and roast at 400F for 20minutes. The caramelised edges add a smoky depth that feels a step up from the classic fresh style. Once roasted, follow the same steps above the soup will taste richer, almost like a summer night in a bowl.
Gordon Ramsays take
If youre curious about how the stacks up against a chefs version, Gordon Ramsays recipe adds onion, thyme, and a splash of cream. Its a heartier option for those who love a velvety finish. You can easily adapt Jamies 5ingredient method by swapping the bread for a splash of cream and adding a pinch of thyme.
Oldfashioned with fresh tomatoes
For a nostalgic feel, use old fashioned tomatoes (the kind youd find at a farmers market). The natural acidity pairs beautifully with a handful of fresh basil and a drizzle of aged balsamic. This version leans into the tradition of tomato and basil soup recipe that many grandparents grew up with.
Nutrition Facts
Beyond comfort, this soup is surprisingly nutritious. Below is a quick snapshot per serving (about 1cups).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| VitaminC | 30%DV |
| Lycopene | 15mg |
According to the USDA Nutrient and Food Information, tomatoes are a leading source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. Pair the soup with a side salad, and youve got a balanced, lowcalorie meal that still feels indulgent.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
Why does my soup turn grainy?
Most graininess comes from overcooking the bread or adding it too quickly. The solution? Sprinkle the bread in small batches, letting each piece soften before the next addition. Blend immediately once the texture feels silky.
Secret from Jamie
Never rush the simmer let the tomatoes break down naturally; thats the secret to a silky base, Jamie says in a 2023 interview on his YouTube channel. Respect the low heat, and the flavors will develop on their own.
Keeping it fresh
If you need to store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature (no longer than two hours), then transfer it to an airtight glass jar. It stays good in the fridge for 34days. When reheating, do it gently over low heat; a rapid boil can damage the delicate tomato flavor.
Freezing for a rainy day
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Portion it into freezersafe containers, label the date, and stash it for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock if it thickens too much.
Serving Ideas
Even though the soup is already a star, a few simple garnishes can elevate it to restaurant quality.
- Oliveoil drizzle: A golden swirl adds shine and a touch of richness.
- Torn basil: Fresh herb right before serving keeps the aroma bright.
- Croutons or toasted pita bites: Crunch contrasts the velvety texture.
- Yogurt swirl: A dollop of Greek yogurt lends tang and extra protein.
Serve the soup alongside a warm focaccia, a cheesy grilled cheese, or even a simple mixedgreen salad dressed with lemon. The result is a comforting, wellrounded meal perfect for a chilly evening or a lazy Sunday brunch.
Conclusion
Jamie Olivers 5ingredient tomato soup proves that great flavor doesnt need a long ingredient list or endless prep time. By using fresh tomatoes, aromatic veggies, and a clever trick with stale bread, you get a silky, satisfying bowl thats both nutritious and adaptable. Whether you choose the classic freshtomato style, roast the tomatoes for a deeper taste, or experiment with Gordon Ramsays richer version, the core principles stay the same: keep it simple, respect the ingredients, and enjoy the process. Give it a try tonight, share how youve made it your own, and let the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes fill your home. Happy cooking!
FAQs
What makes Jamie Oliver’s tomato soup different from other recipes?
It uses just five core ingredients plus stale bread to thicken the soup, creating a silky texture without cream.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes—canned whole peeled tomatoes work fine; just adjust the cooking time slightly to let the flavors meld.
How long can the soup be stored in the refrigerator?
The soup keeps well for 3‑4 days in an airtight container; reheat gently over low heat to preserve its fresh taste.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely—simply omit the crème fraîche and use a splash of oat or almond milk if you want extra creaminess.
What side dishes pair best with this tomato soup?
Serve it with crusty focaccia, grilled cheese, a simple mixed‑green salad, or toasted pita bites for added texture.
