If you're looking for a comforting and delicious soup, look no further than a serving of creamy tomato bisque. This tasty soup packs in 313 calories, making it a filling and satisfying meal on its own.
Creamy tomato bisque is also a great source of key nutrients. A 10 oz serving typically contains around 16 grams of protein, 33 grams of carbohydrates, and 8 grams of fat. You'll also get a healthy dose of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium.
In this article, we'll explore how to make your own creamy tomato bisque at home, the health benefits of this tasty soup, and tips for customizing it to suit your tastes.
As mentioned above, a 10 oz serving of creamy tomato bisque contains around 313 calories. But what about other nutrients? Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to find in this soup:
- Protein: 16 grams
- Carbohydrates: 33 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Vitamin A: 86% of your recommended daily intake
- Vitamin C: 43% of your recommended daily intake
- Iron: 13% of your recommended daily intake
- Calcium: 17% of your recommended daily intake
Keep in mind that these values may vary depending on the specific recipe you use, so be sure to check the nutritional information for the ingredients you use.
Ingredients Required for Creamy Tomato Bisque
To make your own creamy tomato bisque at home, you'll need a few key ingredients. Here are some of the most common:
- Canned tomatoes
- Vegetable broth
- Heavy cream
- Butter
- Onion
- Garlic
- Sugar
- Salt and pepper
Of course, there are plenty of variations on this recipe. For example, you could add fresh herbs like basil or thyme, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Preparing Creamy Tomato Bisque at Home
Now that you know what you need to make creamy tomato bisque, how do you actually make it? Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and heat through.
Remember, this recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to find the perfect creamy tomato bisque for you.
Creamy Tomato Bisque Serving Size Recommendations
A 10 oz serving of creamy tomato bisque is the perfect size for a filling and satisfying meal on its own. However, you could also serve it as a side dish with a sandwich or salad. If you're making a large batch of soup, it's a good idea to portion it out into individual servings so you don't accidentally overeat. You can store leftover soup in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for later use. Of course, everyone's caloric needs are different. Be sure to adjust your portion size accordingly if you're watching your calorie intake.
The Health Benefits of Creamy Tomato Bisque
In addition to being delicious, creamy tomato bisque has a number of health benefits. Here are just a few:
- High in vitamin A and C: These vitamins are important for immune function, vision, and skin health.
- Source of iron and calcium: These minerals are important for bone health and muscle function.
- May aid in weight management: Soups like creamy tomato bisque can help you feel full and satisfied with fewer calories than solid foods.
- May lower risk of chronic diseases: Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of some cancers and cardiovascular disease.
Of course, it's important to balance all of your meals and snacks to ensure you're getting all the nutrients your body needs.
Tips for Improving the Flavour of Creamy Tomato Bisque
While creamy tomato bisque is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the flavour to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
- Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a pop of flavour.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky taste.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve with croutons, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to experiment!
Ways to Customize Your Creamy Tomato Bisque
In addition to changing up the flavour, there are plenty of other ways to customize your creamy tomato bisque. Here are a few ideas:
- Add cooked pasta or rice to make it more filling.
- Top with cooked crumbled bacon for a savoury twist.
- Stir in some cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Get creative and see what works best for you!
If you have food allergies or sensitivities, it's important to be aware of the ingredients in creamy tomato bisque. Here are some common allergens that may be present:
- Dairy: Cream and butter are common ingredients in creamy tomato bisque.
- Gluten: Some recipes may call for flour as a thickener.
- Soy: Some vegetable broths may contain soy products.
- Corn: Sugar is a common ingredient in creamy tomato bisque, which may be derived from corn.
Be sure to check the ingredients and modify the recipe to suit your needs if necessary.
The History of Creamy Tomato Bisque
The origins of creamy tomato bisque are somewhat murky, but it's believed to have originated in France in the 18th century. As with many classic dishes, there are countless variations and regional adaptations. One popular story is that the soup was first made by a French chef who was tasked with creating a dish that would please Napoleon. The chef combined roasted tomatoes with cream and other ingredients to create a rich and satisfying soup that Napoleon loved. Now, creamy tomato bisque is enjoyed all over the world, with different regions putting their own unique spin on this classic soup.
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Tomato Bisque
Here are some common questions and answers about creamy tomato bisque:
- Q: Can I make creamy tomato bisque without heavy cream? A: Yes! You can use coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Q: Can I freeze creamy tomato bisque? A: Yes, creamy tomato bisque freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if they're in season. Just be sure to remove the skins and seeds before cooking.
If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to experiment and try new things when it comes to making and enjoying creamy tomato bisque!
Soup is a lot like a family. Each ingredient enhances the others; each batch has its own characteristics; and it needs time to simmer to reach full flavour.
5 FAQ about Creamy Tomato Bisque
1. What is Creamy Tomato Bisque?
Creamy Tomato Bisque is a soup made from pureed tomatoes, cream, and various seasonings. It is typically served hot and is a popular comfort food.
2. How many calories are in 1 serving of Creamy Tomato Bisque?
One serving (10 oz) of Creamy Tomato Bisque contains 313 calories.
3. Is Creamy Tomato Bisque vegetarian-friendly?
It can be, depending on the recipe. Some versions of Creamy Tomato Bisque may contain chicken or beef broth, while others use vegetable broth to make the soup meatless.
4. Can Creamy Tomato Bisque be served cold?
While it is traditionally served hot, Creamy Tomato Bisque can be served cold as well. This is particularly refreshing on hot summer days.
5. What are some common toppings for Creamy Tomato Bisque?
Some popular toppings for Creamy Tomato Bisque include croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs such as basil, and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar.