soups on!

tomato basil soup. a cheap, quick and super simple soup. you’ve gotta try it. it’s creamy, rich and soul satisfying ~ & did i mention quick & cheap? if you’ve been to the chain la madeleine, it’s much like the one they served 10 years ago. way back then, i researched the recipe and committed it to memory. the internet recipes that are out there now are different. no matter, i never did do as the recipe i found 10+ years ago told me to do, which was use 1 stick of butter to a 46 oz can of tomato juice. i bet they do do that at the restaurant. buy the cheap tomato juice, no need for a name brand. i paid $1.48. don't blab to your guests how easy and cheap this is & they won't know. all you are doing is heating it. no kitchen magic going on. here’s how i do it, and yes, you can add a can of diced tomatoes too, that will add some lumps, but, there is really no need. you're gonna love this recipe. here’s how;

you’ll need: 
1 (44 oz) can of tomato juice, not v-8
3 tablespoons butter (or use up to a stick)
1 bunch basil, chopped finely, keep baby leaves for garnish
1 cup heavy whipping cream (more if you want!)
1 teaspoon salt
white pepper

you’ll do: 
in a large pot on med heat, add butter and melt. add can of tomato juice, stir to mix. when heated through, add salt & white pepper. add 1 cup of heavy cream heat through and add basil. taste and, if need be, adjust salt, basil and cream. serve. if i am eating alone, i add the cream to my serving bowl and not to the pot. that way i can add as little as i want. it’s a preference thing. but, go ahead, add the cream!