If you’re exploring Turkish soup recipes vegetarian in nature, you’re in the right place. Among the many cozy, nourishing dishes in Turkish cuisine, this Turkish tomato soup recipe, also known as Domates Çorbası is a crowd favorite.
Smooth, fragrant, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a must-have in your soup rotation whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests.
This article brings you a warm story, a perfectly balanced tomato soup recipe, insights on ingredients like baking soda, and variations such asturkish ezogelin soup with cheese or Turkish tomato & rice soup.
We’ll also answer the most common questions people ask about this dish and link to other handpicked vegetarian Turkish recipes to support your cooking journey.
Table of Contents
A Love Letter to Tomato Soup
A Memory in Every Spoon
Last month, a Turkish friend welcomed me into her home, where we sat and enjoyed steaming Turkish tomato soup. Topped with melted cheese and served with crusty bread, the soup was simple, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
That evening, it changed my view of soup. It became more than just a food. It was a sense of connection, comfort, and tradition all in one. I returned home determined to recreate it.
My own version combines the smoothness of fresh or canned tomatoes with the richness of butter, and can be easily modified with cheese or rice. I’ve started serving it with my Mediterranean recipes, like this Mediterranean eggplant dish.
This Turkish tomato soup recipe is great for beginners, busy families, or anyone who loves a bowl of warmth at the end of a long day. Whether you try the classic version or add your own twist, like cheese or rice, this soup welcomes your creativity.
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Turkish Tomato Soup Recipe: Classic Turkish Comfort Food Made Simple
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Turkish tomato soup made with fresh tomatoes, butter, and herbs. Naturally vegetarian and easy to customize with cheese or rice for added richness and texture.
Ingredients
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp tomato paste
4 medium tomatoes, grated (or 1.5 cups canned crushed tomatoes)
4 cups water or vegetable broth
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp baking soda (optional, to reduce acidity)
1/2 cup cooked rice (optional)
1/4 cup shredded kaşar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
Dried mint or thyme, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a golden roux.

3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the grated tomatoes or canned tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.
5. Slowly add the water or broth, whisking to avoid lumps.

6. Add salt and baking soda (if using) and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
8. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.
9. Optional: Stir in cheese or cooked rice and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
10. Serve hot, garnished with dried mint or thyme.

Notes
You can roast the tomatoes for a deeper flavor before using.
Add chili flakes or paprika for a spicier version.
Pair it with warm Turkish bread or a light Mediterranean salad.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
How to Make Turkish Tomato Soup Step by Step
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into the basic version of this Turkish tomato soup recipe:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, grated or 1.5 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/8 tsp baking soda to reduce acidity
- Optional: shredded kaşar or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked rice for heartier variation
- Dried mint or thyme (for garnish)
You’ll start by making a roux using butter and flour to give the soup a velvety base. The tomato paste adds richness, while grated tomatoes or crushed canned ones bring a naturally sweet and tangy flavor.
A dash of baking soda neutralizes the acidity without changing the taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until it forms a smooth, golden paste.
- Add the tomato paste and stir for 1 minute.
- Add grated fresh tomatoes (or canned) and stir for 2–3 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the water or vegetable broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Season with salt. Add baking soda now if using, it’ll fizz slightly.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- If using, stir in cheese or rice at the end and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Serve hot, topped with grated cheese or a sprinkle of dried mint.
This soup pairs beautifully with side dishes from our herbs & spices collection, think za’atar-spiced pita or lemony chickpea salad.
Turkish Tomato Soup Variations & Ingredient Tips
Turkish Tomato Soup with Cheese
One beloved variation is Turkish tomato soup with cheese, often topped with grated kaşar (a semi-hard sheep’s cheese) or mozzarella. The cheese melts into the soup, making it creamy without needing heavy cream.
To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of 7 spice blend. You can also roast your tomatoes beforehand to develop deeper flavor.
Turkish Tomato & Rice Soup
Need something more filling? Add 1/2 cup of cooked rice after blending the soup. The rice adds bulk and texture, transforming this dish into a more satisfying meal. This is ideal for when you’re cooking a one-pot vegetarian dinner, or when serving a crowd.
For a Mediterranean twist, add a touch of lemon juice or a swirl of olive oil before serving. I’ve even used leftovers from my soup village collection to inspire more combinations.
Both versions still belong firmly under the umbrella of Turkish soup recipes vegetarian, making them excellent for meal planning and plant-based diets.
If you like more Turkish soup recipes, here they are Turkish chicken soup .
Common Questions About Turkish Tomato Soup
How to make Turkish tomato soup?
Start by sautéing flour and butter to create a roux, then add tomato paste and fresh or canned tomatoes. Add water or broth and simmer. Blend until smooth. Optional additions include cheese, rice, and herbs.
What is the most famous soup in Turkey?
Mercimek Çorbası (lentil soup) holds that title. However, Turkish tomato soup is a close second in popularity and more common as a vegetarian option.
Why put baking soda in tomato soup?
Baking soda reduces acidity and makes the soup easier to digest without altering the taste.
Can I put tomatoes in turkey soup?
You can, but it will become more acidic and might clash with the mild turkey flavor. For vegetarian options, stick with pure tomato or lentil soups.
Conclusion
This Turkish tomato soup recipe is a timeless dish, offering flexibility, comfort, and flavor. Whether you prefer it cheesy or hearty with rice, it’s a great way to embrace the essence of Turkish soup recipes vegetarian.
It’s the kind of meal that brings people together and tells a story with every spoonful.
Want to continue your Turkish culinary journey? Explore more with Mediterranean eggplant, and for more recipe variety, indulge in our quick and easy section for practical and delicious meals that won’t skimp on your soul.
Everything published on this blog is based on experience and news and is not a reliable reference for scientific and health information. Rather, it is my personal experience that I share with you.