Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, folate and vitamin K. They also contain an anti-oxidant called lycopene which has been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers and heart disease. This creamy bisque is a delicious way to enjoy tomatoes and heir health benefits.
1 cup onion chopped
1 cup carrots chopped
3 garlic cloves chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cups fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped or 1 28oz canned diced tomatoes
1 tbsp. tomato paste
1 bay leaf
1 tsp. dried basil
½ tsp. sea salt or sub salt free seasoning to taste
½ cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for at least 10 minutes)
2 tbsp. hemp seeds
Chopped fresh basil for garnish
Sauté the onion and carrot in water or broth about 8-10 minutes or until onion is soft (add more liquid if they start to stick). Add the garlic and cook for a couple of minutes. Add the 4 cups broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, bay leaf and sea salt. Bring to a boil, lower heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove bay leaf, Pour contents of soup into a blender with cashews and hemp seeds. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour back into pot and heat through if necessary. Serve topped with chopped fresh basil.
