Tomato and Basil Bisque

Tomato and Basil Bisque Recipe from Italy with Chicken Stock and Olive Oil

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomato and Basil Bisque is a classic and comforting soup that is perfect for any time of the year. This creamy and flavorful soup is made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and cheese, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

The origins of Tomato and Basil Bisque can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where tomatoes and basil are commonly used in many dishes. This soup has become a popular choice in American cuisine as well, with many variations and adaptations being created over the years.

Ingredients

3.25 cups low sodium chicken stock
1.5 cups spanish onion
1 tbsp garlic
28 oz (794 g) canned tomatoes
0.25 tsp red hot pepper flakes
0.5 cup fresh basil
0.5 cup asiago cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp garlic
16 slices italian bread
0.5 cup asiago cheese

How to prepare

In a heavy gauge non-reactive soup pot, heat 0.25 cup of stock. Add the onion and sweat for 4 to 5 minutes.
Add 1 tbsp of garlic and continue cooking until the onions are limp.
Add tomatoes, the remaining stock, and pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. In a blender, puree the soup in batches until smooth.
Stir in Asiago and basil, and adjust the seasoning. Place the soup in a covered container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
To serve, ladle approximately 1 cup of soup into a soup bowl. Top each serving with 2 Asiago Croutons (recipe below) and garnish with a sprig of fresh basil.
For Asiago Croutons: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Combine oil and garlic, then lightly brush the bread slices with the mixture.
Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and top each slice with Asiago cheese.
Bake the croutons in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Cool the croutons and serve them with the soup.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Stir in cooked pasta or rice for a heartier soup.
Use different herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fresh basil for the best flavor in this soup.

- Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any accidents with hot liquid.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less red hot pepper flakes.

- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato and Basil Bisque with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated cheese for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sweating the onions before adding the tomatoes helps to develop the flavor of the soup.

- Pureeing the soup in batches ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

- Refrigerating the soup before serving allows the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for the Asiago cheese.

- Use dried basil if fresh basil is not available.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato and Basil Bisque can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tomato and Basil Bisque in individual soup bowls garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Add a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Tomato and Basil Bisque with a crisp green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal. A glass of white wine or a cold beer complements the flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Tomato and Basil Bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 28g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 10g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Calcium: 15% of daily value per serving

Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese)

Summary

Tomato and Basil Bisque is a nutritious and delicious soup that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying meal option.

Summary

Tomato and Basil Bisque is a delicious and nutritious soup that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors of tomatoes, basil, and cheese in every spoonful of this comforting bisque.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Tomato and Basil Bisque. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished picking ripe tomatoes from my garden. As I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by the sweet aroma of fresh basil, I knew I wanted to create something special with these ingredients.

I had always loved to cook, and over the years, I had collected a wide array of recipes from friends, family, and even strangers. Each recipe held a story, a memory, and a piece of someone else's heart. But there was something about this particular combination of tomatoes and basil that spoke to me on a deeper level.

I decided to start by roasting the tomatoes to bring out their natural sweetness. As they cooked in the oven, I chopped up the fragrant basil and simmered it in a pot with some garlic and onions. The kitchen was filled with the comforting scents of summer as the ingredients melded together in a harmonious dance.

Once the tomatoes were perfectly roasted, I added them to the pot and let the mixture simmer for a while, allowing all of the flavors to mingle and intensify. I then used an immersion blender to puree the soup until it was smooth and velvety.

As I tasted the finished bisque, I was transported back to my childhood, when my own grandmother would make a similar soup using tomatoes from her garden. It was a simple yet elegant dish that never failed to warm the soul and nourish the body.

I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special, and I couldn't wait to share it with my loved ones. Over the years, I have made this Tomato and Basil Bisque countless times, each batch a little different from the last as I tweak and perfect the recipe.

I have shared it with friends at dinner parties, brought it to potlucks, and even entered it into a local cooking competition where it won first prize. But no matter where I serve it, the response is always the same – people are amazed by the depth of flavor and the comforting warmth of this simple soup.

As I sit here now, years later, with my well-loved recipe card in hand, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood my mind. The laughter of friends gathered around the table, the satisfied smiles of family members enjoying a bowl of soup on a chilly evening, the feeling of pride that comes from creating something delicious from scratch.

I am grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe, for the people who shared their knowledge and love of cooking with me, and for the simple pleasures that a homemade meal can bring. And as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I know that this Tomato and Basil Bisque will always hold a special place in my heart and in the hearts of those who taste it.