Creamy Tomato Bisque
When I was younger, for some reason I did not like tomatoes that much. I didn’t like them in salads, on burgers, or plain.
Of course, as a kid I loved ketchup but we all know that’s not the same thing. Now that I’m older I can’t get enough of tomatoes.
I’ll eat cherry tomatoes sprinkled with a little olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. I don’t think a salad is complete without them. I even use them in homemade sauces.
Now that these tomatoes are in season, I’m planning a ton of dishes to use them in. My first tomato recipe of the year is a Creamy Tomato Bisque. Tomatoes are packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and biotin so of course they would be the highlight of this dish.
Also, the lycopene in tomatoes is an antioxidant, so there definitely are some great benefits to eating this fruit (yes, it really is a fruit).
Few dishes can offer the same level of comfort and satisfaction as a bowl of creamy tomato bisque. With its velvety texture, rich tomato flavor, and a touch of creaminess, this classic soup has captured the hearts and taste buds of countless food lovers.
A Glimpse into History of Creamy Tomato Bisque
Tomato bisque has a storied past that dates back to the late 18th century. It was initially created as a variation of the French classic, “bisque,” which traditionally featured shellfish. However, in the United States, tomatoes took center stage due to their abundance and vibrant flavor. Over time, the soup evolved to incorporate cream, creating the creamy tomato bisque we know and love today.
Flavor Profile
What sets creamy tomato bisque apart from standard tomato soup is its luxurious texture and nuanced flavor profile. Here are some key elements that make it truly exceptional:
- Tomatoes: Ripe, red tomatoes form the foundation of this soup. They provide a burst of natural sweetness and acidity that’s perfectly balanced.
- Cream: The addition of cream or heavy cream lends a velvety smoothness and richness to the bisque, creating a silky mouthfeel.
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and sometimes carrots are sautéed to build a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste.
- Seasonings: Herbs like basil, thyme, and bay leaves are often used to infuse the soup with earthy and aromatic notes.
- Depth of Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a well-rounded taste that’s both comforting and familiar.
A Versatile Delight
One of the most appealing aspects of creamy tomato bisque is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a satisfying standalone meal, paired with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo, or served as an elegant appetizer at a formal dinner. Its adaptability makes it a staple in both family kitchens and upscale restaurants.
Creamy tomato bisque is more than just a soup; it’s a bowl of warmth, nostalgia, and culinary excellence. Its history, flavor profile, and adaptability have earned it a permanent spot in the hearts of food enthusiasts around the world.
More from The Kreative Life: Red Lentil Curry Soup
Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly day or aiming to impress at your next dinner party, a steaming bowl of creamy tomato bisque is always a delightful choice. So, ladle up, savor each spoonful, and relish in the timeless appeal of this classic soup.
Creamy Tomato Bisque Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 Large Fresh from Florida Tomatoes Peeled, Deseeded, and Chopped
- ½ Cup Butter
- ½ Tsp. Dried Thyme
- ½ Tsp. Dried Basil
- ½ Tsp. Dried Parsley Leaves
- ¼ Tsp. Salt ¼ Cup Corn Starch Flour can be used instead
- 2 ½ Cups Beef Broth You can use chicken broth also, but I like beef better
- ½ Cup Heavy Whipping Cream
Instructions
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In a large pot, over medium heat, melt the butter. Slowly stir in thyme, basil, and parsley.
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Add cornstarch. Mix until cornstarch soaks in all of the butter. Whisk in beef broth. Cook for 3 minutes, constantly stirring while the soup thickens.
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Whisk in cream.
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Add tomatoes and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Carefully remove tomatoes from pot and place into blender.
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Blend until tomatoes are completely liquid. Add tomatoes back to the pot. Allow to cook for 5 more minutes, while stirring.
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Remove from pot and allow to cool before serving. Serve with breadsticks.
We love tomato soup in our house. It’s perfect on a cold winter night.
Oooh how divine I love tomato bisque so I cannot wait to try this out. Thank you for the recipe!
I love making soup, there are so many choices. And anything to use one of my soup tureens (I collect more stuff)
This soup would be perfect in the summer when my friends give me tomatoes
I love tomatoes, I can eat them fresh without anything else. But aside from that, I also like them in soups, and this is a recipe I would love without question! Thanks for this, it’s definitely worth a try.
I have never made tomato soup, but now I can’t wait to try!
Me and my husband really love tomatoes! I will try this one. Thank you!
oh wow this looks and sounds totally amazing I must give it a try myself
Would be a soup with grilled cheese. I just love grilled cheese with tomatoes. My son would gobble this up!
This looks amazing! I love tomato soups of all kinds!
That bisque looks amazing! Tomato soup is one of my favorite comfort foods so I will definitely be giving this a try!
Soups are so warm and filling, will have to try this out for my diet! x
Yum! This would be great with some garlic toast or a cheese sandwich!
Yum. Tomato bisque sounds wonderful for this dreary cold weather we are having.
Wow. Does that look yummy. I bet my family would enjoy that soup.
I’ve always loved tomate soup *.*
One of my favorite soups = making this week as OI have lost my voice
OMG this is my favorite! I think we are going to make this soup tomorrow!
They have a tomato bisque soup at the Medieval Knights restaurant we went to. It was my first to try it. I thought it was good.
I love how tomato soup feels. Tomatoes are also good for the skin. They make it brighter and they make your skin smoother. It’s something about the content of tomatoes that does it.
You had me at tomato! This is a great recipe
This looks so delicious! I’m craving some tomato bisque now!