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This creamy tomato bisque strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. The richness of cream meets the natural acidity of tomatoes in a blend so smooth it coats the palate with warmth. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy lunches it brings a sense of nostalgic calm with every spoonful.
I made this for a small dinner gathering once and everyone went quiet after the first spoonful. That’s when I knew it had to stay in my rotation.
Ingredients
- Butter: adds richness and helps build the roux for thickness
- Onion: finely chopped for a savory aromatic base
- Garlic: brings depth and a comforting scent
- All purpose flour: creates a velvety consistency without cream overload
- Chicken or vegetable broth: adds savory depth while keeping it light
- Crushed tomatoes: the backbone of the bisque use a good quality brand for best flavor
- Half and half or heavy cream: smooths the soup into luscious territory
- Sugar: balances the natural tartness of the tomatoes
- Salt: enhances the overall taste use sea salt for better depth
- Black pepper: adds subtle warmth
- Smoked paprika: optional for a gentle smoky note
- Fresh basil: brightens the flavor and finishes the soup beautifully
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes until translucent. This builds the foundational flavor of the soup.
- Bloom the Garlic:
- Add minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Create the Roux:
- Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes. This removes the raw flour taste and ensures a silky soup later.
- Add the Broth:
- Slowly whisk in broth in small increments to prevent clumps. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasoning:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes sugar salt black pepper and smoked paprika if using. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Simmer the Base:
- Bring the soup to a low simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to deepen and concentrate.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until completely smooth. For a more refined texture use a countertop blender in batches.
- Finish with Cream:
- Return the soup to low heat. Stir in half and half or heavy cream and warm gently. Do not boil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a swirl of cream for visual appeal and added freshness.
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Storage Tips
Store leftover bisque in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat and stir frequently. For longer storage freeze in portioned containers and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cream with full fat coconut milk for a dairy free twist. Use gluten free flour if needed. Canned fire roasted tomatoes add extra depth when available.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with grilled cheese for a nostalgic classic. Serve with a green salad dressed in vinaigrette for balance. Offer it in small cups as an appetizer at dinner parties.
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Cultural Context
Though bisque started as a French seafood soup tomato bisque is now a beloved American comfort food. Its popularity has grown with the rise of tomato based dishes that deliver both nutrition and heartwarming flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can roast fresh tomatoes for extra depth of flavor. Use about 2 pounds, peeled and chopped, in place of canned.
- → What cream should I use for a lighter version?
You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk or unsweetened coconut milk for a lighter consistency, though flavor and texture may vary slightly.
- → Is the soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, once cooled, you can freeze the bisque in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
- → What herbs go well besides basil?
Thyme and oregano are great alternatives. You can also add a bay leaf during simmering for subtle depth.
- → Can I make this bisque vegan?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and replace cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
- → How do I avoid a grainy texture?
Be sure to blend thoroughly with an immersion or high-speed blender and simmer gently after adding cream to maintain smoothness.