Creamy Roasted Tomato Bisque | Plant-based Recipe

Bisque vs. Soup: What’s the Difference?

While both bisques and soups are comforting, they differ in texture and preparation. A bisque is traditionally a smooth, creamy dish featuring a single main ingredient, often seafood. However, modern plant-based variations, like this Roasted Tomato Bisque, rely on blended vegetables and non-dairy cream for their luxurious consistency. Soups, on the other hand, can have a more rustic texture, often featuring chunks of vegetables and watery broth.

Why This Bisque is So Good

This vegan roasted tomato bisque is a game-changer. The roasting process enhances the tomatoes' natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. Combining simple, wholesome ingredients results in a velvety, rich, and nourishing bisque that satisfies your comfort food cravings while being packed with nutrients.

The Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition! They are loaded with:

• Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
• Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
• Fiber: Aids digestion and supports gut health.

Incorporating tomatoes into your diet is an easy way to boost your overall health while enjoying delicious meals.

Creamy Roasted Tomato Bisque Recipe

Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 40 min

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh tomatoes (Roma, vine-ripened, or heirloom), halved
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, whole (roasted)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable broth for oil-free), divided
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste), divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil (or ¼ cup fresh basil, torn into small pieces)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cups vegetable broth or stock
• 1 cup canned coconut milk (or cashew cream)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Roast the Tomatoes & Garlic:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Arrange tomatoes, onions (cut side up), and whole garlic cloves on a lined baking sheet.
   • Drizzle with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Roast for 25-30 minutes, until tomatoes are caramelized and slightly charred.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add carrot and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.

3. Blend the Base:

   • Transfer roasted tomatoes and garlic to the pot.
   • Add tomato paste, oregano, dried basil*, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth or stock. (if you are using fresh basil do NOT add here)
   • Simmer for 10 minutes.
   • Blend using an immersion blender, or carefully transfer to a high-speed blender until smooth.

4. Make it Creamy:

   • Stir in coconut milk (or cashew cream), maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar.
   • Simmer for another 2 minutes.

5. Adjust & Serve:

   • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat, and add fresh basil.
   • Serve warm with a drizzle of coconut milk, crusty sourdough, or croutons.

Why Roast the Tomatoes?

Roasting deepens the flavor, bringing out natural sweetness while adding a subtle smoky, caramelized richness. This step transforms a simple tomato soup into a bisque with a rich, complex taste.

DOCTOR’S ORDERS:

For an extra boost of nutrients, serve this bisque with a side of leafy greens or a sprinkle of hemp seeds for added protein and omega-3s. Enjoy your bowl of comfort with the peace of mind that it's nourishing your body inside and out!

For optimal health, include a variety of tomatoes in your diet—raw in salads, cooked in sauces, or blended into soups. Wash them thoroughly or choose organic options when possible to reduce pesticide exposure. Keep your pantry stocked with various low-sodium canned tomato products like whole, paste, sauce, or diced tomatoes, making it easy to whip up a recipe anytime.

However, certain people should limit or avoid tomatoes, including those with:

• Allergies to tomatoes, peppers, or eggplant
• Gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, acid reflux, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Kidney stones, due to their oxalate content
• Histamine intolerance, which can trigger allergic reactions
• Certain medications, such as blood thinners

Join my Patreon family for exclusive plant-based recipes, health tips, and early access to ad-free videos—let's thrive together! 🌱💚

For more helpful tips and information, please join my Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/mealmasters today!

CLICK TO JOIN MY FACEBOOK GROUP