A Rich and Creamy Southern Tomato Soup Made from Scratch
Cream of Tomato Soup is a timeless comfort food that transforms fresh tomatoes into a smooth, velvety bowl of goodness. Combined with celery, onion, butter, and milk, this homemade version offers a richer, fresher flavor than canned soup while remaining simple enough for any day of the week. It’s the perfect companion to grilled cheese sandwiches, crackers, or warm buttered bread.
Featured in Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon, this recipe showcases the Southern tradition of creating wholesome, satisfying meals from fresh garden ingredients and pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 3 cups tomatoes
- 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
- 1/4 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cups water
- 3 teaspoons sugar
- 5 Tablespoons butter (melted)
- 4 Tablespoons flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Serves: 4–6
Instructions
- Combine the tomatoes, chopped celery, chopped onion, sugar, and water in a large saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually whisk the milk into the roux until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Strain the cooked tomato mixture to remove any skins and vegetable solids.
- Stir the strained tomato mixture into the milk mixture until well combined.
- Season with the salt and paprika.
- Heat gently until hot, but do not allow the soup to boil after adding the milk.
- Serve warm.
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
- A classic homemade cream of tomato soup made with fresh ingredients.
- Straining the vegetables creates a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Heat the soup gently after adding the milk to keep it creamy.
- Serve with grilled cheese, cornbread, or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes inspired by generations of Southern home cooking. Her cookbook highlights comforting dishes rooted in Black culinary traditions and celebrates the warmth of homemade meals prepared with simple ingredients and care.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
