Tomato Bisque

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup chopped shallots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons white rice
• Salt and ground pepper
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed plum tomatoes or fresh tomatoes chopped
• 1 tablespoon torn basil leaves
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 drops tabasco sauce
• Croutons, parsley or grilled cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large sauce pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the shallots and the garlic and saute until softened, about three minutes.
2. add the broth, rice and 1/2 teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the rice is soft about 15-20 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes and basil. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
4. Puree in a blender until smooth and return to saucepan over low heat. 
5. Whisk in the cream, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper and tabasco and reheat gently.
6. taste and add additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve and garnish with croutons or a delicious grilled cheese!