RUSTIC FARM-FRESH TOMATO SOUP

Rustic Farm-Fresh Tomato Soup image

Provided by Family Favorites

Time 1h

Number Of Ingredients 10

4 c very ripe tomatoes, I used a mixture of varieties, roughly chopped and seeded
1 medium or large onion, chopped
2 c chicken broth (I like to use Better Than Bouillon)
1 can(s) tomato sauce (8 oz)
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
3 tsp sugar, or to taste
1/2 - 3/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper, or to taste
optional - garlic powder, Italian seasoning, croutons, green onion tops, shredded Parmesan cheese

Steps:

1. Roughly chop and seed 4 cups of tomatoes. In a large pot, combine tomatoes, chopped onion, and chicken broth.
2. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Remove from heat. Add tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar.
4. Using an immersion blender, blend to desired consistency.
5. To remove any remaining seeds or skin, pour cooled soup through a colander and into a large bowl. Stir or push through with the back of a large spoon.
6. Wipe out soup kettle and melt butter. Add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it begins to become golden.
7. Add a ladleful of soup to the butter/flour mixture and blend.
8. Then, add the rest of the tomato soup mixture and stir. Heat to a low simmer. Check salt, pepper, and sugar and adjust to taste. All tomatoes have different sugar content. 3-4 teaspoons seem to work for us. Adjust to your own preference. Serve.
9. For variety, add garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Serve with rustic croutons, green onion tops, and/or shredded Parmesan.