Chunky Tomato Basil Bisque

One of my absolute favorite rainy day meals is a gooey grilled cheese sandwich with a nice warm bowl of hearty tomato soup. Now I know tomato soup is one of those things that you either love it or you hate it, but I’m sure if those in the latter group tried this recipe, they would fall in love with it.

You will be surprised at how easily this soup comes together, and you will be even more surprised by this chunky, flavorful goodness of each bite. Serve this fantastic soup with a sandwich or top with croutons for a nice crunch. Best if served on a dreary day to take your rainy blues away.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of diced tomatoes
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 can of tomato paste
• ¼ cup yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 12 ounces vegetable broth
• ¾ cup basil, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• ½ cup half and half (heavy cream is fine)

1. In a large stock pot, melt butter over medium low heat. Saute onion and garlic in butter for 4 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper stir well. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, covered.
3. Stir in the basil, then remove half the soup to a blender or large food processor and process with the half and half until smooth.
4. Return the pureed tomato mixture to the stock pot, stir well, and heat over medium low for about 10 minutes. Do not allow to boil. Serve warm.