Creating your own Homemade Tomato Soup is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these steps:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot (or canned tomatoes, if using). Stir well to combine.

4. Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. If using fresh tomatoes, you may want to add a teaspoon of sugar to balance acidity.

5. Season: Add salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Stir to mix all ingredients.

6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together.

7. Blend Soup: After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend it less.

8. Add Cream: For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream and heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

9. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.

10. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

These straightforward steps will guide you in creating a delicious homemade tomato soup that is sure to impress your family and friends!