Creamy tomato bisque soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. This rich and velvety soup combines the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with a hint of creaminess. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting lunch option, this recipe is easy to follow and uses fresh ingredients. You’ll love how quickly you can whip up this delicious homemade creamy tomato bisque soup to share with family and friends.
Ingredient Breakdown
Ripe Tomatoes
For this recipe, you will need about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes provide the base flavor and sweetness that makes this bisque truly special. Feel free to use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable.
Onion
One medium-sized onion, diced finely, adds depth and sweetness to your creamy tomato bisque soup. Onions create a flavorful foundation when sautéed and help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Garlic
Four cloves of garlic, minced, give this dish its aromatic essence. Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup and pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
Vegetable Broth
Use around 4 cups of vegetable broth as the cooking liquid for your bisque. Vegetable broth adds richness and layers of flavor without overpowering the taste of the tomatoes.
Heavy Cream
To achieve that luxurious creaminess, add 1 cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking. Heavy cream gives your tomato bisque a smooth texture and balances the tanginess from the tomatoes.
Olive Oil
Two tablespoons of olive oil are used for sautéing your vegetables. Olive oil enhances flavors while keeping everything moist during cooking.
Salt and Pepper
Season your creamy tomato bisque with salt and pepper to taste. These seasonings brighten all the flavors in your dish and are essential for bringing out the best in each ingredient.
Step By Step Recipe: Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, throw in diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 2: Cook Tomatoes
Add chopped ripe tomatoes to the pot along with salt and pepper. Cook them down for about 10 minutes until they soften significantly and start releasing their juices. Stir frequently to keep them from sticking to the bottom.
Step 3: Add Broth
Pour in vegetable broth gradually while stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Blend Soup
Once simmered, carefully use an immersion blender or transfer batches into a countertop blender. Blend until completely smooth; return it back to pot if using a countertop blender.
Step 5: Stir in Cream
Now it’s time to add heavy cream! Pour it into your blended soup while stirring continuously over low heat for another 5 minutes. This step ensures everything combines well without boiling.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your creamy tomato bisque soup before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed based on your preference. If desired, feel free to add herbs like basil or thyme for an extra kick!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestion
Serve your creamy tomato bisque hot in bowls garnished with fresh basil leaves or croutons for added texture! Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a complete meal experience that everyone will enjoy.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days maximum. Reheat gently on low heat before serving again; avoid boiling as it may change texture negatively.
Freezing Tips
For longer storage options, freeze cooled bisque in freezer-safe containers for up to three months! Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy again—easy meals await!
Mistakes to avoid
When making creamy tomato bisque soup, one common mistake is using unripe tomatoes. Unripe tomatoes lack the sweetness and depth of flavor that ripe ones offer. Always select fresh, ripe tomatoes for a rich taste. Another mistake is not seasoning adequately. Salt and pepper enhance flavors, so it’s essential to season at different stages of cooking. Also, avoid overcooking the soup; this can lead to a loss of freshness in the ingredients. Lastly, skipping the blending step can result in a chunky texture rather than the smooth, creamy consistency desired in bisque.
Tips and tricks
To create the best creamy tomato bisque soup, start with high-quality ingredients. Use vine-ripened tomatoes for a naturally sweet flavor profile. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent alternative due to their rich taste. Sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the soup; this technique brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish. For creaminess, consider using heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Blend the ingredients until completely smooth for a luxurious texture. Finally, serve with fresh basil or croutons to enhance presentation and flavor.
Suggestions for Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
Consider pairing your creamy tomato bisque soup with grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal that balances flavors well. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory element that complements the soup’s sweetness. For added nutrition, serve alongside a fresh garden salad filled with crisp vegetables. If you enjoy spice, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall experience.
FAQs
What is the best type of tomato for creamy tomato bisque soup?
The best type of tomato for creamy tomato bisque soup is ripe Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes. These varieties provide more flesh and fewer seeds, resulting in a thicker texture and richer flavor profile. If using canned tomatoes, opt for San Marzano variety as they have a sweet taste ideal for soups.
Can I make creamy tomato bisque soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make creamy tomato bisque soup ahead of time! Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove while stirring to maintain its creamy texture.
How can I thicken my creamy tomato bisque soup?
To thicken your creamy tomato bisque soup, you can add a slurry made from cornstarch mixed with water, or use pureed potato or cooked rice blended into the soup for extra thickness without altering flavor significantly.
Is there a vegan option for creamy tomato bisque soup?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version of creamy tomato bisque soup, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These alternatives provide richness without dairy while maintaining deliciousness.
How do I store leftover creamy tomato bisque soup?
Store leftover creamy tomato bisque soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator once cooled down properly. It will remain fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers where it can last up to three months.
What can I serve with creamy tomato bisque soup?
Creamy tomato bisque pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or fresh garden salads. Each complement adds texture and flavor while creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies both heartiness and taste preferences.
Summary
In summary, creating delicious creamy tomato bisque soup requires careful ingredient selection and preparation techniques. Avoid common mistakes like using unripe tomatoes and neglecting seasoning throughout cooking. Utilize tips such as blending thoroughly for smoothness and pairing wisely with side dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches for optimal enjoyment. With these guidelines in mind, your homemade soup will impress friends and family alike!
Print
Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
A rich and velvety tomato bisque that warms the soul. Perfect for a cozy night in, this soup is full of flavor and creaminess that pairs beautifully with crusty bread.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and return to low heat to warm through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
Keywords: tomato bisque, soup, creamy, vegetarian