homemade tomato bisque recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best homemade tomato bisque recipe

I’ve been making this homemade tomato bisque recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The rich, velvety texture and deep flavor of the tomatoes are just what you need on a chilly fall or winter evening.

My family loves it, and I love how easy it is to make in large quantities. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the tomatoes, which are high in lycopene, an antioxidant that can help protect against certain diseases.

This recipe is a staple in our house, and I’m happy to share it with you. The origins of tomato bisque date back to the Italian countryside, where peasants would simmer down fresh tomatoes with garlic and herbs to create a hearty soup.

Over time, the recipe has evolved to include cream and butter for added richness. But don’t worry, this version is much healthier than the original!

I use low-fat milk and a moderate amount of olive oil to keep things light and flavorful. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and elegant enough for a special occasion.

Homemade Tomato Bisque

Homemade Tomato Bisque

4.7 from 1294 votes

This homemade tomato bisque recipe is a comforting and flavorful soup made with fresh tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and cream. It’s perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bisque

2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
2 tbsp tomato paste

For the Cream

1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
2Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery.
3Saute until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4Add the can of whole tomatoes (including juice), vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, sugar, dried thyme, dried basil, and tomato paste to the pot.
5Stir well to combine.
6Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
7Then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8The tomatoes should break down and the flavors should meld together.
9Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth.
10If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
11Return the soup to the pot.
12In a small saucepan, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
13Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
14Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the roux is light golden brown.
15Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
16The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
17Stir the cream mixture into the tomato bisque.
18Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
19The bisque should have a rich, creamy texture and a vibrant red color.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Immersion blender or blender
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother bisque, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending. To make it vegetarian, ensure all ingredients are certified vegetarian.

Watch Video Of How Homemade Tomato Bisque Works

This homemade tomato bisque recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a light lunch or a hearty dinner. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a quiet night in.

I often make a big batch and freeze individual portions for quick, easy meals during busy weeks. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave, and it’s just as delicious the second time around. I like to serve it with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting, satisfying meal.

It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, and it’s a great way to use up ripe tomatoes from the garden. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the tomatoes, which are high in vitamin C and lycopene, making it a healthy choice for you and your family. I’m always happy to share this recipe with friends and family, and it’s become a favorite in many households.

I believe you’ll love it too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Bisque

Q: What type of tomatoes should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using a mix of heirloom and cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirlooms have a more complex flavor profile, while cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup base up to 2 days in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Simply reheat it before serving.

Q: How do I serve this bisque?

Serve hot or chilled – either way works beautifully! You can also add some crusty bread or croutons for added texture.

Q: Can I substitute other vegetables for the tomatoes?

No, while you can add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to create a variation, using fresh tomatoes is essential for this recipe’s unique flavor profile.

Q: What if I don’t have any cream? Can I use something else?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter version.

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