Tomato bisque soup is a beloved comfort dish that combines the deep, rich flavor of ripe tomatoes with a velvety smooth texture, thanks to a splash of cream. Originating from French cuisine, “bisque” traditionally referred to a smooth, creamy seafood soup, but over time, variations like tomato bisque became household favorites for their warmth and simplicity.
What sets tomato bisque apart from regular tomato soup is its luxurious consistency and depth of flavor. It’s a go-to meal for chilly evenings, light lunches, or an elegant starter at dinner parties.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 carrot, peeled and chopped
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes
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2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
Optional Garnish:
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Fresh basil leaves
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Croutons
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Shredded Parmesan cheese
Substitutions:
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Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and replace cream with coconut or oat cream.
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Low-Fat: Use milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and chopped carrots. Cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened in color.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in canned tomatoes (with juice) and broth. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon. Add sugar, basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are very tender.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches (be careful with hot liquids).
Step 6: Add the Cream
Stir in the cream and let the soup warm through for 2–3 more minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle into bowls, garnish with basil, croutons, or cheese, and serve hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Don’t skip sautéing the veggies — it’s key for flavor.
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Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
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Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use San Marzano tomatoes for the best sweet-tart flavor.
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Deglaze with white wine after tomato paste for added depth.
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Strain through a fine sieve for an ultra-smooth finish.
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A high-speed blender gives a silky texture over immersion blenders.
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Toast your croutons with olive oil and garlic for an aromatic crunch.
Variations and Customizations
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Roasted Tomato Bisque: Roast fresh tomatoes and garlic before blending.
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Spicy Tomato Bisque: Add chipotle peppers or cayenne.
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Low-Carb: Skip the carrot and reduce sugar.
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Herb-Infused: Add thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a Mediterranean twist.
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Cream-Free: Make it light with cashew cream or a potato-based thickener.
Serving Suggestions
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Garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of Parmesan.
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Pair with:
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Grilled cheese sandwich
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Garlic bread
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Side salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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A glass of chilled Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon
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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 210
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Protein: 4g
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Sugars: 8g
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Fats: 14g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 520mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make tomato bisque ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freezes for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat without curdling the cream?
Reheat slowly on low heat, stirring often. Don’t let it boil.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, use about 2 pounds of peeled, seeded fresh tomatoes. Roast them for enhanced flavor.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if no flour or gluten-containing garnishes are added.
What can I do if it’s too acidic?
Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow it out.
Closing Thoughts
Tomato bisque soup is more than just a bowl of comfort — it’s a culinary hug, rich in history and flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned foodie, this recipe will warm your kitchen and your heart. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own twists
