Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Tomato Garlic Mushroom Bisque?
It is a warm and comforting soup featuring earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and ripe tomatoes, adapted from the TOH Quick Cooking July/August 2004 issue.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
How much garlic is required for this bisque?
The recipe calls for 8 minced garlic cloves to provide a robust, aromatic flavor.
What type of oil should I use for sautéing?
It is recommended to use 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of minced fresh basil with 2 teaspoons of dried basil.
How is the bisque thickened?
The soup is thickened by whisking 3 tablespoons of flour into the chicken broth and bringing it to a gentle boil for 1-2 minutes.
Do the tomatoes need to be prepared in a specific way?
The tomatoes should be chopped and seeded, or you can use 2 cups of canned diced tomatoes.
Is this soup suitable for lunch?
Yes, it is described as an excellent companion to a fresh salad or a hearty sandwich for a satisfying lunch.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this vegetarian, you can substitute the 2 cups of chicken broth with vegetable broth.
How long should I sauté the mushrooms and onions?
Sauté the sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, and minced garlic for approximately 5-7 minutes.
Is an immersion blender necessary for this recipe?
An immersion blender is optional; it is used if you prefer a creamier, pureed texture rather than a chunky bisque.
How much mushroom is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 cup of sliced fresh mushrooms.
Why is sugar included in the ingredients?
One tablespoon of sugar is added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall flavor profile.
What should the consistency of the onions be after sautéing?
The onions should be sautéed until they are translucent.
Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?
Yes, you can transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches to achieve your desired consistency.
How much flour is needed for the base?
You will need 3 tablespoons of flour.
What are the primary seasonings in this bisque?
The primary seasonings include fresh or dried basil, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The mixture should simmer for about 5 minutes until the flavors meld together and the soup is heated through.
Can this recipe be served as an appetizer?
Yes, its rich flavors make it an excellent choice for a warm appetizer.
What is the first step in preparing the soup?
The first step is to heat olive oil in a large saucepan and sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic.
Should I remove the mushrooms from the pan at any point?
Yes, after sautéing, remove the mushroom mixture with a slotted spoon and set it aside while you thicken the broth.
How much chicken broth is required?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of chicken broth.
Is this bisque considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, vegetable-based homemade soup.
What amount of onion is needed?
You need 2 tablespoons of chopped onions.
How do I ensure the flour doesn't clump?
Gradually whisk the flour into the chicken broth in the pan until the mixture is smooth before boiling.
What is the origin of this recipe's inspiration?
The recipe was lovingly adapted from the July/August 2004 issue of TOH Quick Cooking.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, the instructions suggest adjusting the seasoning to your personal taste before serving.
Is the soup served hot or cold?
This bisque is intended to be served warm.
What makes this a 'bisque' rather than a standard soup?
The use of a thickened broth base and the option to puree it for a smooth, rich texture characterizes it as a bisque.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 11 ingredients in total for this Savory Tomato Garlic Mushroom Bisque.