Frequently Asked Questions
What brand is this Creamy Basil Tomato Bisque a copycat of?
This recipe is a homemade copycat version of the beloved Progresso Creamy Basil Tomato Bisque.
How many calories are in a serving of this bisque?
Each serving contains approximately 94 calories.
What is the fat content of the tomato bisque?
The bisque contains 0.8g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 19.6g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar is in the Creamy Basil Tomato Bisque?
The recipe contains 7.3g of sugar per serving.
How much protein does this soup provide?
Each serving provides 1.5g of protein.
How much fiber is in the bisque?
The bisque contains 2.3g of fiber per serving.
What is the primary base for the soup?
The base is made from 7 cups of cold water mixed with a 12-ounce can of tomato paste.
What type of flour is recommended for this recipe?
Wondra Gravy Flour is used to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
How much tomato paste is required?
You will need one 12-ounce can of tomato paste.
What sweeteners are used in the bisque?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons of light corn syrup.
Why is balsamic vinegar included in the ingredients?
Four teaspoons of balsamic vinegar are added to balance the flavors and add depth.
Which dried herbs are used for the basil flavor?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of dried sweet basil leaves.
Is there any oil in the recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 2 teaspoons of olive oil.
What is the purpose of the cornstarch?
One tablespoon of cornstarch is used as a thickening agent for the bisque.
How long should the soup simmer?
After reaching a boil, the bisque should simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
What should I do with the bay leaf?
The bay leaf should be added during the cooking process and carefully removed and discarded before serving.
What size saucepan is needed for this recipe?
A 2.5-quart saucepan is recommended for preparing this bisque.
Are there any specific seasonings for flavor?
The recipe uses butter flavor seasoning (Butter Buds), onion powder, garlic powder, and ground fennel.
What type of pepper is used?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 teaspoon of lemon pepper.
Is there a salt substitute in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 3/4 teaspoon of Morton salt substitute in addition to regular salt.
How long should the mixture boil?
The mixture should be brought to a boil while whisking continuously for about one minute.
What are some suggested garnishes for the bisque?
You can garnish the soup with fresh basil, a swirl of cream, or croutons for added texture.
What dishes pair well with this tomato bisque?
It is ideal served with crusty bread or a side salad.
How many ingredients are in this recipe total?
There are 18 ingredients used to make this Creamy Basil Tomato Bisque.
What is the consistency of this soup?
The soup has a velvety and creamy texture, characteristic of a classic bisque.
Is this soup served hot or cold?
This bisque is intended to be served warm.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include soup, tomato basil, bisque, copycat recipe, lunch, snack, comfort food, and homemade.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to vigorously whisk the cold water and tomato paste together in a saucepan until smooth.
How much ground fennel is used?
The recipe uses a small amount, specifically 1/8 teaspoon of ground fennel.