Tomato bisque soup, with its rich, creamy texture and vibrant tomato flavor, is a culinary classic. But the word "bisque" often conjures up images of complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen. This couldn't be further from the truth! This guide will walk you through making an easy tomato bisque soup that's perfect for a weeknight meal, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. We’ll explore simple techniques, address common questions, and ensure you achieve a delicious and velvety smooth result every time.
What Makes this Tomato Bisque Recipe Easy?
This recipe prioritizes simplicity without compromising on taste. We'll leverage readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it accessible to even novice cooks. The key is smart shortcuts, like using canned tomatoes and blending the soup for ultimate creaminess. We avoid complicated steps like making a roux or using multiple pots, streamlining the process significantly.
Ingredients for Easy Tomato Bisque Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
- Optional garnishes: fresh basil leaves, a swirl of cream, croutons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Soup: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, sugar, basil, and oregano to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Blend for Creaminess: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until completely smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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Stir in Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Heat through gently; do not boil.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, a swirl of extra cream, or croutons, if desired.
How Long Does Tomato Bisque Soup Last?
Properly stored, leftover tomato bisque soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Can I Make Tomato Bisque Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have a chance to deepen. Prepare it a day or two in advance and reheat gently before serving.
What to Serve with Tomato Bisque Soup?
Tomato bisque pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Crusty bread
- Simple salad
- Caprese salad
Is Tomato Bisque Soup Healthy?
Tomato bisque, particularly when made with vegetable broth and fresh ingredients, can be a relatively healthy option. Tomatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. However, the addition of cream increases the fat and calorie content. Using a lighter cream alternative, like half-and-half or coconut cream, can help reduce the overall richness.
Can I Make Tomato Bisque Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
This easy tomato bisque soup recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss. Enjoy!
