Tomato-Mushroom Bisque
A rich, creamy tomato and mushroom bisque with layered flavors of garlic, herbs, and saffron, perfect for cozy dinners or elegant starters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy, large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped celery, onion, leek, shallot, and garlic. Cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1/2 pound of sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add the peeled, seeded, and chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, white wine, whipping cream, lemon juice, thyme, bay leaf, and saffron threads.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the bisque. You can also substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it vegetarian. If fresh mushrooms are unavailable, use canned or dried mushrooms, just rehydrate them before cooking. A splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the depth of flavor. This bisque pairs beautifully with Easy French Onion Soup for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bisque hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. It goes well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Try pairing it with Crispy Petite Drumsticks for a delightful contrast. A glass of white wine complements the flavors of the bisque beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the bisque on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the bisque thickens, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato-Mushroom Bisque contains roughly 1413 calories, with 19g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (166% of the Daily Value), iron (141% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1221mg per serving (53% 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 make this bisque ahead of time?
Yes, this bisque can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to develop and improve overnight. Just reheat it gently before serving. However, if you're adding cream, consider adding it just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Can I freeze the tomato-mushroom bisque?
Yes, you can freeze the bisque. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop.
What can I use instead of saffron?
If saffron isn't available, you can substitute with a pinch of turmeric for color and a slightly different flavor profile. While it won't replicate saffron's unique taste, it will still add warmth to the bisque. Additionally, you might consider omitting it altogether if necessary.
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).