Granny'S Tomato Bisque
A rich, creamy tomato bisque with buttery, velvety texture and subtle soda tang, perfect for comforting lunches or cozy dinners with a classic flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter.
- Stir in the flour and cook until thick and smooth.
- Heat the tomato juice and milk in separate pans until hot.
- Add the tomato juice to the butter and flour mixture.
- Mix the soda with a bit of water and add it to the soup.
- Stir in the hot milk last and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier bisque, consider substituting half-and-half for the milk. If you want to add depth, sauté some onions or garlic in the butter before adding the flour. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the flavor, and if you have any leftover roasted tomatoes, they can be blended in for extra richness. This bisque also pairs well with Sliced Baked Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting tomato bisque with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a burst of color. It pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh garden salad for a light lunch. For a special touch, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction over the soup just before serving for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. If the bisque thickens too much, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny'S Tomato Bisque contains roughly 1447 calories, with 34g protein, 282g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (105% of the Daily Value), protein (68% of the Daily Value), and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you'll need about 2 pounds. Roast or blanch them to remove the skins, then blend until smooth before adding to the soup. This will give you a fresher flavor, but might require additional seasoning.
Is it possible to make this bisque vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this bisque vegan by substituting vegan butter for the butter and using a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. Ensure that the tomato juice is also free from animal products, and you'll have a delicious vegan version.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the tomato juice. For a more intense flavor, a pinch of cayenne pepper would work well. Adjust according to your spice preference to create a bisque that suits your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).