Tomato Dumpling Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, vibrant dish that combines the warmth of simmered tomatoes with the satisfying bite of cheesy dumplings, then you absolutely must try this Tomato Dumpling Soup. It’s a beautiful harmony of fresh ingredients and cozy textures, perfect for any season when you want something both nourishing and a little bit special. Each spoonful brings a rich tomato flavor with subtle hints of cinnamon and basil, while the golden dumplings burst with creamy cheddar and cream cheese delights. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to soup recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Tomato Dumpling Soup recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a key role, from the sweetness of the sweet potato to the sharpness of mature cheddar, ensuring the soup is balanced and memorable.

• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a subtle fruity base and helps sauté vegetables evenly.
• Butter (25 grams): Adds richness and depth to the base of the soup.
• Onion, chopped (1): Offers sweetness and aromatic foundation.
• Sweet potato, peeled & chopped (½): Brings natural sweetness and creaminess to the broth.
• Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Delivers warmth and a punch of flavor.
• Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, unexpected layer of spice.
• Fresh basil, torn (2 tablespoons): Gives the soup a fresh, herby aroma.
• Chopped tomatoes (2 cans, 400g each): The heart of the soup, adding vibrant color and acidity.
• Chicken stock (500ml): Boosts the savory base with umami notes.
• Sugar (½ teaspoon): Balances the acidity of tomatoes perfectly.
• Single cream (50ml): Adds velvety richness and softens flavors.
• Dried breadcrumbs (125g): Essential for dumpling structure and texture.
• Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Helps dumplings rise and become fluffy.
• Mature cheddar, grated (75g): Brings savory sharpness to dumplings.
• Mustard powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle tang that lifts the dumplings.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy herbal note to dumplings.
• Egg (1): Binds the dumpling ingredients together perfectly.
• Cream cheese (50g): Makes the dumplings wonderfully creamy inside.

How to Make Tomato Dumpling Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the chopped onion and sweet potato and let them cook gently for 5 to 10 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This slow cooking step helps develop rich flavors and a natural sweetness that’s essential for a delicious Tomato Dumpling Soup.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, stir in the minced garlic and ground cinnamon, cooking for just one minute until they release their inviting aromas. Then toss in the torn fresh basil leaves, chopped tomatoes, and chicken stock. Each ingredient here layers flavor, from the warmth of cinnamon to the bright, herbaceous basil.

Step 3: Cook Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover it, and let everything simmer gently for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully while the sweet potato softens completely, contributing to a naturally creamy texture.

Step 4: Make Dumplings

While the soup simmers, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, combine the dried breadcrumbs, baking powder, grated cheddar, mustard powder, dried oregano, egg, and cream cheese. Mix everything until you achieve a stiff, manageable dough. Then shape the mixture into eight even balls, ready to cook in the soup.

Step 5: Blend Soup

Once the soup has finished simmering, blend it until completely smooth, creating that luscious base you’ll love in your Tomato Dumpling Soup. Then stir in the sugar, salt, pepper, and single cream to balance the acidity and add a final touch of richness.

Step 6: Cook Dumplings

Finally, drop the dumplings gently into the hot soup. Let them simmer for 10 minutes without stirring so they can puff up and cook through perfectly. Serve the soup hot, with two dumplings per bowl – each bite brimming with cheesy goodness nestled in the vibrant tomato broth.

How to Serve Tomato Dumpling Soup

Garnishes

Garnish your Tomato Dumpling Soup with a sprinkle of freshly torn basil leaves or a little extra grated mature cheddar for an eye-catching finish and burst of added flavor. A swirl of extra cream can also elevate the presentation and add creaminess to each spoonful.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm garlic toast, which are perfect for dipping into the silky tomato broth and catching cheesy bits from the dumplings. A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty soup without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stylish touch, serve your Tomato Dumpling Soup in individual ramekins or delicate bowls lined with edible flowers like nasturtiums. You could also try adding a dollop of pesto on top of each bowl, giving an herbal, nutty contrast that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tomato Dumpling Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the dumplings submerged in the soup to prevent them from drying out, and make sure to reheat gently to preserve the dumplings’ tender texture.

Freezing

Freezing this soup is possible but not ideal for dumplings, as they can become a bit soggy after thawing. If you want to freeze it, consider freezing the soup base and dumplings separately. Freeze the soup in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to two months.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently over low heat to avoid breaking down the dumplings too much. Stir occasionally but carefully, and add a splash of cream or stock if the soup feels too thick after cooling.

FAQs

Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the dried breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. You may need to adjust the amount slightly to get the right dumpling consistency, but the soup will be just as delicious.

What can I use instead of chicken stock?

Feel free to use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version or a lighter flavor profile. Just be sure it’s a good-quality stock to maintain the soup’s depth of flavor.

Can I make Tomato Dumpling Soup vegan?

It’s a bit tricky because of the cheese and cream, but you can substitute with vegan cream and plant-based cheese alternatives. Use olive oil instead of butter and a flax egg or another binder for the dumplings to keep it vegan-friendly.

How spicy is the soup?

This Tomato Dumpling Soup has a warm, gentle spice from the cinnamon and mustard powder but is not spicy in terms of heat. It’s suitable for anyone who enjoys mild, aromatic flavors without a kick.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Carrots, celery, or even a handful of spinach added during the simmering stage can enhance the soup’s flavor and nutrition, though it’s wonderful just as the recipe stands.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Dumpling Soup is an absolute joy to make and even more of a pleasure to eat. It’s a wonderful recipe to cozy up with, packed with fresh ingredients and comforting flavors that feel homemade and heartfelt. I can’t wait for you to try this and share it with family or friends – it truly highlights how simple ingredients can come together to create something wonderfully special.

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