Save This velvety tomato basil bisque blends fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of cream to create a rich and flavorful dish. Sautéed onions, garlic, carrot, and celery provide a fragrant base, while crispy homemade croutons add a delightful crunch. The soup simmers slowly, allowing the flavors to meld before being pureed to a smooth consistency. Finished with fresh herbs and cream, it's a comforting option ideal for a light meal or starter.
The first time I made this bisque, it was a rainy Tuesday and I was craving something that felt like a warm hug. I had some aging tomatoes in the pantry and a heel of baguette that needed using, so I decided to experiment. Now, this soup has become my go-to whenever the weather turns grey or someone needs a little comfort.
My roommate walked in while the croutons were baking and actually asked what bakery I had visited. The smell of garlic and toasting bread filled our entire apartment, and she could not believe those golden cubes came from a forgotten baguette I found in the back of the cupboard.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: This creates the foundation for sautéing your vegetables and adds a subtle fruitiness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes
- Yellow onion, garlic, carrot, and celery: These aromatics build layers of flavor, with the carrot adding natural sweetness that tames the tomatoes
- Whole peeled tomatoes: Canned with their juices, these break down beautifully and create a smoother base than diced tomatoes ever could
- Vegetable broth: Use a good quality broth here since it provides half the liquid and significantly impacts the final flavor
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon helps neutralize the natural acidity of canned tomatoes without making the soup taste sweet
- Dried oregano: This herb adds an earthy, slightly floral note that complements the fresh basil perfectly
- Heavy cream: This transforms the soup from a simple tomato soup into a luxurious bisque with a silky mouthfeel
- Fresh basil: Added at the very end to preserve its bright, peppery flavor and vibrant green color
- Day old bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the olive oil better and becomes crunchier when baked
- Garlic powder: Dusting the croutons with garlic powder ensures every bite is savory and aromatic
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Build the soup base:
- Add the canned tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
- Simmer to meld flavors:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the croutons:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and crisp, turning halfway through.
- Blend until silky:
- Remove soup from heat. Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a blender in batches to puree until completely smooth.
- Add the finish:
- Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil. Return to low heat and warm through for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Ladle hot soup into bowls and top generously with croutons and extra fresh basil leaves.
Save This soup saved a disastrous dinner party once when my main course burned. I quickly whipped up this bisque, and my guests actually raved about it more than they would have about the original plan. Sometimes the best meals are the ones that happen by accident.
Making It Your Own
Coconut cream works beautifully as a dairy free alternative and adds a subtle tropical sweetness. A pinch of red pepper flakes transforms this into something with gentle warmth that lingers pleasantly.
Perfect Pairings
A grilled cheese sandwich dunked into this bisque is absolute perfection. The way the melted cheese combines with the creamy soup creates the most comforting bite imaginable.
Storage And Reheating
This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. The croutons will lose their crunch though, so store them separately in an airtight container.
- Reheat the bisque gently over low heat to prevent the cream from separating
- Refresh croutons in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to restore their crunch
- The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Save There is something deeply satisfying about a bowl of soup that tastes this good but came together so easily. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients enhance the flavor of this bisque?
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Fresh basil, sautéed onions, garlic, carrot, and celery create a fragrant base, while a touch of cream adds richness.
- → How are the croutons prepared for this dish?
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Bread cubes are tossed with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, then baked until golden and crisp to add texture.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
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Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream to maintain creaminess without dairy.
- → What is the best way to achieve a smooth texture?
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After simmering, puree the soup using an immersion blender or countertop blender until completely smooth.
- → Are there any suggested pairings with this bisque?
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A classic pairing is a grilled cheese sandwich, which complements the rich, creamy flavors nicely.
