La Madeleine’s Tomato-Basil Soup
Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Reviews: 112
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 242.3
- Fat: 22.8g
- Saturated Fat: 14.2g
- Cholesterol: 71.3mg
- Sodium: 344.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 9.6g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 6.8g
- Protein: 2.6g
Recipe Category: Low Protein
Keywords: < 60 Mins
Ingredients:
- 4 fresh tomatoes
- 4 canned whole tomatoes
- 12-14 tomato juice
- 1 basil leaves
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sweet unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Lemon juice, optional
Instructions:
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Combine fresh tomatoes, canned whole tomatoes, and tomato juice/stock in a saucepan.
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Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
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Once simmered, carefully puree the mixture, along with the fragrant basil leaves, in small batches. You can use a blender, a food processor, or for added convenience, a handheld food blender, right in the cooking pan.
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Return the luscious puree to the saucepan, and with grace, add in the velvety duo of heavy cream and sweet unsalted butter. Stir this symphony over low heat, letting the creaminess marry with the vibrant tomato flavors.
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Season your creation with a pinch of salt and a generous crack of black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of lemon juice can elevate the taste to new heights.
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Garnish your soup masterpiece with fresh basil leaves, presenting a visual and aromatic feast for the senses.
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Serve this La Madeleine’s Tomato-Basil Soup alongside your favorite bread, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Cooking Insights:
This revered recipe has been cherished since its debut in an article by Beverly Bundy of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram around May 20, 1994. The popularity of this soup is evident, with Beverly noting that it consistently ranks among the most requested recipes. In fact, the demand is so high that she receives at least 10 calls a week asking for this culinary gem.
The balance of fresh and canned tomatoes provides a symphony of flavors, while the infusion of basil leaves brings a delightful herbal essence. The addition of heavy cream and sweet unsalted butter introduces a luxurious creaminess that is perfectly complemented by the subtle tanginess of lemon juice.
As you simmer and puree, the kitchen transforms into a haven of savory aromas, creating anticipation for the moment when you finally ladle this masterpiece into bowls.
Conclusion:
La Madeleine’s Tomato-Basil Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey that has withstood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an enthusiastic home cook, this soup invites you to embrace the joy of cooking, creating a dish that not only delights the palate but also holds a special place in the hearts of those who taste it. So, gather your ingredients, embark on this gastronomic adventure, and savor the rich legacy of La Madeleine’s Tomato-Basil Soup.
