Ingredients and Equipment
Gather high-quality tomatoes
To make a delicious tomato bisque recipe, you will need to gather high-quality tomatoes as the main ingredient. The type of tomato to use for this recipe is crucial, as it will greatly impact the flavor and texture of the final product.
The best tomatoes for making tomato bisque are typically plum or Roma tomatoes. These varieties have a higher solid content and less water than other types of tomatoes, which makes them ideal for cooking down into a rich and intense sauce.
When selecting the tomatoes, choose ones that are heavy for their size, have a deep red color, and are free of bruises or blemishes. The skin should be smooth and glossy, indicating a high level of freshness and quality.
You will need about 3-4 pounds of these high-quality tomatoes to make a batch of tomato bisque. Depending on the size of your blender or food processor, you may be able to fit all the tomatoes in one batch, or you may need to cook them down in batches and then combine them later.
Other ingredients that you will need for this recipe include:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
In terms of equipment, you will need:
- A large pot for cooking the tomatoes down into a sauce
- A blender or food processor for pureeing the sauce
- A fine-mesh strainer for straining the soup
- A serving dish or cups for serving the finished bisque
With these ingredients and equipment, you will be well on your way to creating a delicious and rich tomato bisque recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Use a mix of heirloom and plum tomatoes for depth of flavor, according to the University of California’s guide to tomato varieties.
To make a rich and flavorful Tomato Bisque , you’ll need a combination of heirloom and plum tomatoes, which will provide depth and complexity to the dish. According to the University of California’s guide to tomato varieties, heirloom tomatoes offer a wide range of flavors and textures, while plum tomatoes have a higher solid content, making them perfect for sauces.
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs mixed heirloom and plum tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
As for equipment, you’ll need:
- A large stockpot or Dutch oven
- A blender or food processor
- A fine-mesh strainer or sieve
- A medium-sized bowl for whisking
- A hand-held immersion blender (optional)
Note: If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can also blend the soup in batches using a regular blender and then return it to the pot.
Select aromatic spices
The key to making a delicious Tomato Bisque lies not only in its rich flavor but also in using the right ingredients and equipment. To create this French-inspired soup, you will need:
Main Ingredients:
- To start, we’ll be using fresh or canned tomatoes, depending on your preference for texture and flavor. Fresh tomatoes can add a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate with canned tomatoes.
- Next, we have onions, garlic, and herbs like basil, which not only add flavor but also aromatics to the dish.
- The other key components are vegetable or chicken broth, heavy cream or (for a lighter option), and spices such as oregano, and Thyme.
Aromatic Spices:
For the aromatic spices, we’ll be focusing on those that complement the natural sweetness of tomatoes. You will need:
bay leaves: These leaves have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and are often used in soups and stews.
thyme: A popular herb known for its savory, slightly minty flavor, which pairs well with tomatoes.
oregano: This pungent herb has a distinctive earthy flavor that adds depth to the dish.
Equipment:
To make this , you will need:
- 1 large pot with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution (stainless steel or enameled cast iron work well).
- A blender or immersion blender to puree the soup.
- A strainer or fine-mesh sieve to remove solids and achieve the desired consistency.
- A serving vessel, such as a French <i.bouillon< i=””> cup or individual bowls for serving.</i.bouillon<>
- Having the right ingredients and equipment in hand will help you to create a rich, flavorful that will warm hearts and bellies alike.
Choose fresh thyme and bay leaves for their distinctive flavors, which pair well with tomatoes as recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society.
To make a delicious tomato bisque recipe, you’ll need some essential ingredients and equipment. First and foremost, it’s crucial to choose fresh thyme and bay leaves for their distinctive flavors, which pair well with tomatoes as recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society.
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (any variety, but preferably Roma or cherry tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, let’s move on to the equipment needed:
- A large saucepan with a heavy bottom (stainless steel or enameled cast iron)
- A hand blender or an immersion blender
- A fine-mesh strainer or food mill
- A ladle
- A spatula
- A bowl for cooling the soup (optional)
It’s also essential to have some kitchen tools on hand, such as:
- A sharp knife for chopping the onion and garlic
- A cutting board for preparing the ingredients
- A measuring cup or spoon for accurate measurements
Preparation and Cooking
Roast the tomatoes
To prepare for making tomato bisque, you will need a variety of ingredients and some essential kitchen tools.
Ingredients
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, but fresh is preferred
- Olive Oil: For sautéing onions and garlic
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and shallots for added depth of flavor
- Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, and bay leaves to add complexity
- Stock: Chicken or vegetable stock to enrich the bisque
- Acidity: A splash of wine or lemon juice to balance the flavors
- Spices: Salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer for seasoning
To prepare the tomatoes, there are several options.
Option 1: Roast the Tomatoes
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cut the tomatoes in half or quarters depending on their size and your preference.
- Place the tomato pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
- Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Roast the tomatoes for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
This will add a deep, sweet flavor to your bisque that’s hard to achieve with fresh or canned tomatoes alone. However, if you’re short on time or don’t have access to an oven, there are alternative methods for preparing the tomatoes.
Option 2: Sauté the Tomatoes
- Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the tomatoes, salt, and any other aromatics or spices you like, and stir to combine.
- Continue sautéing the tomatoes until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 15-20 minutes.
This method will still produce a flavorful bisque but with less depth than roasting. However, it’s faster and more convenient if you’re short on time or don’t have access to an oven.
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in tomatoes; aim for 2025 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to achieve a deep red color, advises the USDA’s guide to cooking with tomatoes.
To achieve the perfect roasted tomatoes for your Tomato Bisque recipe, it’s essential to understand the process of preparation and cooking.
Firstly, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) as recommended by the USDA’s guide to cooking with tomatoes. This temperature will help to caramelize the natural sugars in the tomatoes, bringing out their sweetness.
Select plum or Roma tomatoes for this recipe, as they have a higher solid content and fewer seeds than other varieties. Remove any stems or leaves from the tomatoes and cut them into quarters or halves, depending on their size.
Place the prepared tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each tomato to allow for even roasting. You can also add some garlic cloves, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves to the baking sheet for added flavor.
Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat them evenly. You can also sprinkle some sugar on top of the tomatoes to enhance their natural sweetness.
Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 2025 minutes, or until they reach a deep red color and are tender. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven’s temperature and the size of the tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Roasting Process
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Puree the roasted tomatoes in a blender or food processor
- Add chicken broth, cream, and tomato paste to the pureed tomatoes
- Cook the mixture over low heat until it thickens slightly
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
- Serve the Tomato Bisque hot, garnished with fresh herbs or croutons if desired
Benefits of Roasting Tomatoes
- Brings out the natural sweetness in tomatoes
- Adds depth and complexity to sauces and soups
- Reduces cooking time and makes prep work easier
In summary, roasting tomatoes is an essential step in making a delicious Tomato Bisque recipe. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve the perfect roasted tomatoes and create a rich, flavorful soup that’s sure to impress.
Mise en place and blending
To embark on crafting a delicious Tomato Bisque recipe, it’s essential to first prepare for the culinary experience ahead.
Preparation
The initial step involves gathering all necessary ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. This includes:
- Tomatoes (fresh or canned, but fresh is always preferred)
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Onion and garlic for flavor enhancement
- Basil and oregano for aromatic depth
- Dry white wine (optional) for added complexity
- Cream or non-dairy alternative for rich texture
Once the ingredients are collected, it’s crucial to organize them in a well-laid-out workspace. This practice is known as Mise en place, French for “everything in its place.”
Mise en Place
Before beginning the cooking process, each ingredient should be:
- Chopped (onion and garlic)
- Crushed or blended (tomatoes)
- Juiced or pureed (optional)
Properly prepared ingredients not only facilitate cooking efficiency but also contribute to an improved final product.
Cooking and Blending
Now, proceed with sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. If using dry white wine, add it now. Bring to a simmer, then let cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded.
Once the mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to a blender or food processor to puree the soup. Add the cream or non-dairy alternative and blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
The final step is serving. Pour the Tomato Bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and croutons if desired. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Chop onions, celery, and garlic before adding them to the pot; then puree the mixture in batches for a smooth bisque texture as suggested by the James Beard Foundation.
Chopping the vegetables for a tomato bisque recipe is an essential step that requires some planning and patience. It’s best to chop onions, celery, and garlic before adding them to the pot to ensure they cook evenly and at the right pace.
To get started, peel and chop the onions, making sure they are roughly the same size so they cook uniformly. You can use a food processor or chop them by hand using a sharp knife.
Next, chop the celery stalks into small pieces, removing any strings or woody parts as you go. This will help to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to the bisque.
Finally, mince the garlic cloves, taking care not to crush them too finely or they may burn during cooking.
Once your vegetables are chopped, sauté them in a little bit of oil until they’re softened and translucent. This will help to mellow out their flavors and bring out their natural sweetness.
After sautéing the vegetables, add the rest of the ingredients to the pot and continue cooking until the bisque has reached your desired consistency.
One trick for achieving a smooth bisque texture is to puree the mixture in batches. This will help to break down any remaining chunks or fibers, resulting in a velvety and creamy finish.
The James Beard Foundation suggests using an immersion blender or transferring the bisque to a blender in batches to achieve this smooth texture. Either way, be sure to blend until the mixture is fully incorporated and free of lumps.
Final Touches and Serving
Add cream and seasonings
To achieve the final touches on our tomato bisque, it’s essential to add a few key elements that will elevate the flavors and textures. One crucial step is adding heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking time.
This rich and creamy addition will help to balance out the acidity from the tomatoes and create a velvety texture that coats the palate. Be sure not to overdo it, as too much cream can make the bisque feel overly heavy and cloying.
Next, we’ll want to season our tomato bisque with some strategic additions to enhance its overall flavor profile. Salt is an obvious choice, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other ingredients like black pepper, dried basil, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for added depth and heat.
For a more subtle approach, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors without overpowering them. You can also try incorporating other aromatics like garlic, onion powder, or sautéed mushrooms to add an extra layer of complexity.
The key is to balance and harmonize these flavors rather than relying on just one dominant note. Trust your instincts and taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning until it feels just right for your palate.
When serving our finished tomato bisque, consider garnishing with a few fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of color and fragrance to each bowl. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or croutons for dipping into the creamy goodness.
Alternatively, you might choose to pair your tomato bisque with some grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Whichever approach you take, be sure to savor each spoonful of this delicious and comforting dish!
Use heavy cream or halfandhalf to add richness without overpowering the flavors, according to the Food and Wine article on cooking with dairy; adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper as needed.
The final touches on the tomato bisque recipe involve adding a rich and creamy element without overpowering the bold flavors of the tomatoes. According to Food and Wine, heavy cream or half-and-half can be used to achieve this effect. By incorporating a small amount of dairy into the soup, the dish takes on a luxurious texture that enhances its overall taste.
To properly utilize heavy cream or half-and-half in tomato bisque, it’s crucial not to add too much. The article suggests starting with a minimal amount and adjusting to taste, allowing the flavors to remain balanced and vibrant. This approach helps prevent the soup from becoming overly rich and losing its delicate character.
Once the dairy has been added, the seasoning of the tomato bisque should be adjusted as needed. Salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper are suggested as essential components for bringing out the natural flavors of the tomatoes. This step requires some finesse, as the goal is to enhance the dish without overpowering its delicate taste.
The role of salt in seasoning tomato bisque is particularly crucial. It enhances the overall flavor and helps to balance the other ingredients, preventing the soup from becoming too acidic or dull. Pepper adds a sharpness that cuts through the richness of the heavy cream or half-and-half, while cayenne pepper brings a subtle heat that complements the bold flavors of the tomatoes.
Ultimately, the final touches on tomato bisque involve a delicate balance of rich and creamy elements with the bold flavors of the tomatoes. By mastering the use of dairy, seasoning, and spices, cooks can create a truly exceptional dish that showcases the best qualities of this beloved soup.
Finish with fresh herbs
- The final touches on your tomato bisque are a crucial part of bringing out its full flavor and presentation.
- To add depth and warmth, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few grinds of black pepper towards the end of cooking time.
- This will not only enhance the flavor but also create a beautiful visual contrast with the vibrant colors of the soup.
- For a pop of color and freshness, garnish your tomato bisque with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or even chives.
- These delicate greens can be sprinkled on top as is, or you could create a beautiful herb bouquet by gently arranging them in a pattern on the surface of the soup.
- Alternatively, consider making a herb-infused oil by blending some extra virgin olive oil with minced fresh herbs like dill or tarragon, and then drizzling it over your finished bisque.
- Whichever garnish you choose, make sure to add it just before serving, as this will help preserve the freshness and fragrance of the herbs.
- This is especially important when using delicate herbs like parsley or basil, which can quickly lose their potency once exposed to air.
Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for added freshness and visual appeal.
The final touches are essential in creating a visually appealing dish that complements the flavors of the tomato bisque.
A key aspect of adding the finishing touches involves serving the bisque in an attractive manner, which includes presenting it with garnishes to enhance its appearance and aroma.
One of the most popular options for garnishing tomato bisque is using chopped fresh chives or parsley, as these herbs provide a bright, fresh flavor that perfectly complements the rich, savory taste of the tomatoes.
The act of sprinkling chopped herbs over the surface of the bisque serves multiple purposes: it not only adds color and visual interest to the dish but also releases its fragrance, heightening the overall sensory experience for those consuming the tomato bisque.
To maximize the effectiveness of using garnishes like chives or parsley, it is crucial to use them immediately before serving the dish. This allows their fresh flavor and aroma to be fully appreciated by diners, further elevating the dining experience associated with enjoying a well-crafted bowl of tomato bisque.
The choice between chives and parsley ultimately comes down to personal preference. Chives tend to have a more delicate flavor compared to parsley, making them suitable for those who prefer a subtle addition to their dish. On the other hand, parsley adds a bolder, fresher taste that pairs exceptionally well with the rich flavors of tomato bisque.
Regardless of the garnish chosen, incorporating fresh herbs into the serving process ensures a memorable dining experience and leaves a lasting impression on those who have savored the deliciousness of homemade tomato bisque.
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