This Tomato Fennel Soup is a vibrant, flavorful dish that balances the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the subtle licorice-like aroma of fennel.
The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a light yet satisfying soup that’s perfect as an appetizer or a main course.
Packed with fiber from tomatoes and fennel, plant-based nutrients, and low in saturated fat, this soup supports digestive health while being gentle on calories.
Coconut sugar adds natural sweetness without refined sugar, and optional green peppercorns provide a zesty finish.
Quick to prepare and made in under 30 minutes, this soup is ideal for everyday meals, meal prep, or weeknight dinners, offering both comfort and nourishment.
Its smooth, creamy texture and bright flavors make it universally appealing, even for those new to plant-based cooking.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Tall Soup Pot
Perfect for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly, this pot is versatile for stews, sauces, and large-batch cooking.
Immersion Blender
Essential for creating a silky, smooth texture directly in the pot without transferring hot soup. Great for purees, sauces, and smoothies.
Chef’s Knife
Ideal for chopping fennel, tomatoes, and onions uniformly, ensuring even cooking and professional presentation.
Cutting Board
Provides a stable surface for prep work, protecting countertops and making chopping safer and more efficient.
Measuring Spoons
Precise seasoning and sugar measurements ensure consistent flavor every time, useful across all recipes.
25-Minute Tomato Fennel Soup
Equipment
- 1 tall soup pot
- 1 Immersion Blender
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 Set Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1½ kg tomatoes roughly chopped
- ½ medium fennel bulb finely chopped
- 2 medium onions roughly chopped
- 4 –5 cloves garlic crushed
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- ½ tsp black pepper cracked
- 1 tsp coconut sugar
- 1 small lemon juiced
- 1 tsp pickled green peppercorns optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by roughly chopping the tomatoes and onions, and finely dice the fennel bulb. Crush the garlic cloves to release their aroma. Preparing ingredients uniformly ensures even cooking and enhances flavor extraction.
- Heat the Pot: Place a tall soup pot over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable stock to prevent sticking. This forms the base for gently sautéing your vegetables without added oil.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and fennel to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent and the fennel softens, releasing its natural sweetness and fragrance.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, crushed garlic, black pepper, and coconut sugar. Cover the pot and cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a fragrant, flavorful base.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable stock, stir to combine, and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low-medium and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and deepen.
- Incorporate Lemon Juice: Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors and balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Blend to Smoothness: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to purée the soup until completely smooth and creamy. Serve warm, garnished with optional pickled green peppercorns for a subtle tang and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and rich color.
- Slice fennel thinly to ensure it softens quickly and releases flavor evenly.
- Simmer gently; avoid a rolling boil to preserve delicate flavors.
- Lemon juice brightens the soup and balances sweetness—add at the end to retain freshness.
- Optional pickled green peppercorns add a tangy, visual garnish but can be omitted.
- Coconut sugar is optional; it enhances natural tomato sweetness without overpowering the soup.
- Soup can be served immediately or stored for later reheating.
Chef’s Secrets To Flavorful Soup
The key to this soup’s depth is gentle cooking and layering of flavors.
Sautéing fennel and onions first softens their texture and mellows their bite, creating a natural sweetness that complements the tomatoes.
Using vegetable stock instead of water enhances the base, while finishing with fresh lemon juice adds brightness without diluting the flavor.
For a richer experience, let the soup sit for 10–15 minutes after blending, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
Serving Suggestions For Perfect Pairings
Serve this soup warm as a starter or main with crusty bread, garlic toast, or grilled sandwiches.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds color and freshness.
For a complete meal, pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance textures and flavors.
It’s equally delightful as a light lunch or a comforting dinner on cooler days.
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently over medium-low heat to preserve the delicate flavors and smooth texture.
Avoid reheating at high heat, which can break down the fennel and affect the taste.
Optional garnishes like lemon juice or peppercorns should be added just before serving for maximum freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes work if fresh are unavailable, but choose high-quality, low-sodium varieties for best flavor.
2. Is fennel necessary?
Fennel adds a subtle licorice-like aroma. You can substitute with celery for a milder flavor.
3. Can I make this soup ahead?
Absolutely. Prepare the soup in advance and reheat gently. Add lemon juice at the end for freshness.
4. Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is fully plant-based, gluten-free, and low-fat, making it suitable for most dietary needs.
5. Can I add cream or milk?
You can add coconut milk or plant-based cream for a richer texture, though it will change the original light, fresh flavor.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by plantbasedfolk. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
