Tomato Bisque(A Wonderful Winter Soup.)
A rich and comforting winter soup with smoky bacon, sweet carrots, and savory herbs, perfect for warming up on cold days and enjoyed with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp. Chop into small pieces and set aside.
- Saute the carrots and celery in the bacon fat until tender and drain.
- Combine in a large pot the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, sauteed carrots and celery, bacon, marjoram, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes or until all the flavors have blended.
- Remove from heat and puree in a blender until smooth.
- Return to the pan and add the cream.
- Heat for several minutes but do not boil.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar flavor. If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor; use thyme or basil instead of marjoram and rosemary if desired. Ensure the cream is added at the end to prevent curdling. This Tomato Bisque pairs beautifully with a grilled cheese sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tomato Bisque with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Garnish with croutons or fresh herbs like parsley for added color and flavor. This soup also pairs well with a variety of sandwiches, making it a great choice for a cozy lunch or dinner. Consider serving it alongside your favorite chicken recipes for a heartier spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency. Avoid boiling the soup once the cream has been added.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Bisque(A Wonderful Winter Soup.) contains roughly 457 calories, with 13g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (129% of the Daily Value), iron (104% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% 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 freeze Tomato Bisque?
Yes, you can freeze Tomato Bisque, but it's best to do so without the cream. Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently and stir in the cream just before serving.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you need a substitute for chicken broth, vegetable broth is an excellent option for a vegetarian version of this soup. You can also use water with a teaspoon of bouillon or stock cubes for added flavor. Just be mindful of the salt level in your substitutions, as some broths can be saltier than others.
How can I adjust the thickness of the bisque?
To adjust the thickness of your Tomato Bisque, you can blend it longer for a smoother texture or add more broth for a thinner consistency. If you prefer a thicker soup, consider incorporating a roux or a cornstarch slurry. Remember to adjust seasoning as needed after modifying the consistency.
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).