Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grandma's Heirloom Creamy Tomato Bisque?
It is a rich and comforting soup that combines garden-ripened tomatoes with heavy cream for a velvety, soul-warming texture.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 primary ingredients: diced tomatoes, tomato juice, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
How many tomatoes do I need?
The recipe calls for 4 fresh, diced tomatoes.
What type of tomato juice should I use?
You can use either store-bought or homemade tomato juice for this bisque.
Is the butter salted or unsalted?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 cup of unsalted butter.
How long does the tomato mixture need to cook?
The diced tomatoes and juice should simmer together for 30 minutes over medium heat.
Should the bisque be completely smooth?
It is up to your preference; the recipe suggests pureeing part of the mixture to leave some chunks for texture.
What equipment is needed to puree the soup?
You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or a countertop blender in batches.
When should I add the heavy cream?
Gradually stir in the heavy cream and butter after the tomato mixture has been simmered and pureed.
Can I boil the soup after adding the cream?
No, you should be careful not to bring the soup to a boil; instead, gently heat it through.
How is the bisque seasoned?
It is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste while stirring constantly.
What are the best garnishes for this soup?
Crispy croutons or your favorite stir-ins are recommended to provide an elevated touch.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, the ingredients listed are suitable for a vegetarian diet.
What makes this bisque creamy?
The combination of 1 1/2 cups of fresh heavy cream and 1/2 cup of butter creates its luxurious creaminess.
What is the texture of the finished soup?
The finished bisque has a velvety texture that can be either chunky or smooth.
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
While the recipe specifies fresh diced tomatoes, canned tomatoes can be substituted if fresh are not available.
Does this recipe contain any added sugar?
No refined sugar is listed; a touch of sweetness mentioned in the description comes naturally from the tomatoes.
How much heavy cream is required?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of fresh heavy cream.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include soup, tomato, vegetable, creamy, heirloom, comfort food, homemade, and bisque.
How do I prevent the soup from sticking to the pot?
Stir the tomato mixture occasionally while it is simmering over medium heat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you would need to substitute the heavy cream and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Is this a good recipe for winter?
Yes, its rich and comforting nature makes it perfect for any season, especially colder months.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, ensuring the soup does not reach a boil to maintain the cream's texture.
What side dish pairs well with tomato bisque?
A classic grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh green salad pairs wonderfully with this soup.
Is the preparation of the tomatoes specific?
Yes, the tomatoes should be fresh and diced before starting the recipe.
Can I add herbs to this recipe?
While not in the original list, herbs like fresh basil or oregano would be a great addition to the flavor profile.
How much butter is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of butter.
Should the tomatoes be peeled?
The recipe does not require peeling, as dicing and blending will incorporate the skins into the bisque.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, with only six ingredients and straightforward instructions, it is very beginner-friendly.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The specific serving count is not provided, but the volume of ingredients suggests it serves approximately 4 to 6 people.