Nordstrom's Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons olive oil                                                                             4 Servings
• 4 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon dried basil, crushed
• 3 28-ounce cans whole peeled Roma tomatoes
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 1 pint heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
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Procedures

1. 1
   In a large, heavy saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add carrots and onion and cook until beginning to soften, 10 minutes, then add basil and cook until vegetables are completely soft, about 5 minutes more.
2. 2
   Add tomatoes and broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20-30 minutes, or up to 45 minutes if time permits.
3. 3
   After allowing soup to cool somewhat, purée in a blender or food processor until smooth, doing so in batches if necessary. For a much silkier texture, strain the purée before returning to the pot.
4. 4
   Stir in cream little by little over over low heat, until desired texture is reached and soup is just heated through. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Baked Potato Soup

                                                                        

4 large baked potatoes                                             1 c. sour cream

2/3 c. flour                                                               1/2 c chopped green onions

6 c. 2% milk                                                            1/2 tsp. pepper

2 c shredded cheddar cheese

1 tsp salt

Mix flour and milk, whisk and cook until thick.  Add chunks of baked potato (scooped out of shells) and cheese.  Salt and pepper to taste.

Add sour cream and onions (1/4 cup).  Garnish with cooked and diced bacon, grated cheese and remaining green onions.