Tomato bisque is a luxurious and comforting soup that embodies the essence of rich, savory flavors and smooth, velvety textures. This creamy tomato soup is a delightful variation of traditional tomato soup, elevated by the addition of heavy cream, which blends seamlessly with vegetable broth to create a comforting base. The aromatic flavors of fresh herbs like basil and thyme complement the robust taste of whole tomatoes, making this soup a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it hot on a chilly day or cold during warmer months, tomato bisque is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can whole peeled tomatoes (28 ounces) with garlic and crushed red pepper
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh basil for garnish, shredded Parmesan cheese, and cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. Saute the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender and translucent.

2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic and dried oregano. Stir for 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.

3. Simmer the Tomato Mixture: Pour in the canned tomatoes with their liquid, sugar, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for about 10 minutes.

4. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the hot soup to a blender and puree, then return it to the pot.

5. Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil, shredded Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper if desired.

Top Tips:

1. Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Choose a variety of canned tomatoes that includes garlic and crushed red pepper for added heat and flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Onions: Cook the onions until they are translucent but not caramelized, as this can make the soup slightly bitter.
3. Blend Carefully: When blending hot soup, make sure to do it in batches if necessary to avoid splashing.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially the salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a burst of aromatic flavor and makes the soup look more appealing.
6. Reheat Safely: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat only what you plan to eat at one time to avoid bacterial growth.

Variations:

1. Spicy Twist: Add more crushed red pepper for an extra kick of heat.
2. Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme instead of dried oregano and basil.
3. Cheesy Delight: Add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Tomato Roast: Roast fresh tomatoes in the oven before blending them into the soup for a deeper flavor.
5. Vegan Option: Replace heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond milk.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes:
Tomato bisque is a relatively low-calorie soup option, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. The heavy cream adds richness but also contributes to the calorie count. To make it healthier, consider using a non-dairy creamer or reducing the amount of cream used. This soup is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy your delicious and comforting tomato bisque