- Prepare the Ingredients
Gather your ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium diced yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 jar (approx. 7 oz) of Haidilao tomato soup base, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional), and fresh basil for garnish.
- Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Build the Soup
Add the entire jar of the savory tomato base to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine and let it cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. Pour in the vegetable broth, add the oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer and Finish
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the soup cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If using, stir in the heavy cream and heat through for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with torn fresh basil, and serve immediately.
- Calories:180 kcal
- Protein:3 g
- Carbohydrates:15 g
- Sugar:9 g
- Salt:1.2 g
- Energy:750 kJ
- Fat:12 g
Last Tuesday, I found myself staring into the abyss of my pantry, craving a soup that was both comforting and invigorating. That’s when my hand landed on a hidden gem I’d impulse-bought ages ago: a jar of Haidilao tomato soup base. Now, before you picture a thin, sad broth, let me assure you, this condiment is a powerhouse. It’s the shortcut to a deep, complex tomato flavor that usually requires hours of simmering. I’m talking about a base so rich and savory it can transform a simple pot of soup from a last-minute meal into a soul-warming event. Forget bland tomato paste; this is a whole new league of convenience.
The Story Behind the Haidilao Tomato Soup Base
Haidilao is, of course, legendary for its theatrical hot pot experience, but the real magic is in their broths. The tomato base from their kitchens became so beloved that they started bottling it—a genius move for the home cook. It’s not just pureed tomatoes; it’s a carefully crafted blend of ripe tomatoes, aromatics, and a hint of umami that replicates the signature soup you’d find bubbling away in their restaurants. This bottled version brings a taste of that culinary theater right to your stovetop, no reservation required.
What Makes This Savory Tomato Blend So Special
What sets this mixture apart is its depth. It has a silky-smooth body and a perfectly balanced sweet-tart profile with a savory backbone that lingers. Unlike a plain can of tomato sauce, it’s already layered with flavor, meaning you can build a stunning soup with minimal extra effort. The texture is lush without being heavy, making it the perfect canvas for all sorts of additions.
The Pro-Tip: Bloom Your Aromatics
My one non-negotiable tip? Bloom your garlic and onion in the olive oil over medium-low heat until they are fragrant and just starting to turn golden. This isn’t the time to rush. That gentle sizzle unlocks their sugars and essential oils, creating a flavor foundation that the tomato base will cling to, resulting in a soup that tastes like you simmered it all afternoon.
Serving & Pairing Ideas: Think Beyond the Bowl
While a crusty piece of garlic bread is the classic companion, don’t stop there. Ladle this soup over a mound of creamy polenta for the ultimate comfort food. For pairing, a bright, acidic white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully. Or, for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade with a sprig of rosemary is unexpectedly perfect.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For a creamy version, swirl in a quarter cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. To make it heartier, add a can of drained white beans or some cooked Italian sausage. For a vegan twist, use vegetable broth and skip the optional parmesan garnish.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to marry. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Your Soup Base Questions, Answered
Can I use this as a pasta sauce? Absolutely! Thin it with a bit of the pasta cooking water and you have a fantastic, quick arrabiata-style sauce.
Is it very spicy? Not at all. The Haidilao tomato soup base is savory and tangy, not spicy. You can easily add heat with red pepper flakes if you like.
Where can I find it? Check the international aisle of larger grocery stores or your local Asian market. It’s also widely available online.
So there you have it. This humble jar is more than a condiment; it’s a ticket to a deeply satisfying meal with minimal fuss. I used to think making a great tomato soup required a whole afternoon, but this base changed my mind. For more brilliant takes on classic dishes, I always turn to the experts at Serious Eats. Now, grab that jar and get simmering. Your new favorite weeknight ritual is waiting. Let me know in the comments what you love to add to yours!
