TOMATO BISQUE

Tomato Bisque
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
2 large carrots, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped small
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh Roma tomatoes, peeled
4 cups chicken broth
3 or 4 sprigs fresh parsley
5-10 fresh basil leaves
2 bay leaves
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
Sea salt and white pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

• Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. 
• Add chopped onions, carrots, celery and garlic.
• Cook stirring often until soft, about 8-10 minutes.
• Add chicken broth and tomatoes, stirring well.
• Tie herbs together in cheesecloth and drop into the soup. This makes it easy to remove later.
• Season with sea salt and white pepper to taste.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 30 minutes.
• Remove herbs and discard.
• Add whipping cream and blend until smooth.
• Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated cheese and fresh basil.

Pairs really well with Tuna Melts.