Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Bisque: A Comforting Classic

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Welcome back to our culinary corner! Today, we’re diving into a dish that’s perfect for those cozy evenings when you crave something warm, rich, and utterly satisfying. We’re talking about the delectable Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Bisque.

This bisque is a creamy, velvety delight that combines the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tangy brightness of tomatoes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. So, let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Bisque

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of making this bisque, let’s talk about why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire. Here are a few reasons:

  1. Flavor Explosion: The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the red peppers and tomatoes, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
  2. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins A and C from the red peppers and tomatoes, this bisque is as nutritious as it is delicious.
  3. Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of warm, creamy bisque. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
  4. Versatile: This bisque can be a starter, a main course, or even a side dish. Pair it with a crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  5. Impressive Yet Simple: Despite its rich flavor and elegant appearance, this bisque is surprisingly easy to make.

Now that we’ve whetted your appetite, let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking!

Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Bisque
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Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Bisque

Recipe by arwynnCourse: Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Bisque:

  • 4 large red bell peppers

  • 6 ripe tomatoes (or two 14.5 oz cans of diced tomatoes)

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 4 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For Garnish:

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Croutons or crusty bread

  • A drizzle of olive oil or cream

Directions

  • Roast the Vegetables
    Roasting the red peppers and tomatoes is the key to developing the rich, smoky flavor that makes this bisque so special.
    – Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
    – Prepare the peppers and tomatoes: Cut the red peppers in half and remove the seeds and stems. If using fresh tomatoes, cut them in half and remove the core.
    – Roast the veggies: Place the peppers and tomatoes cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the skins are charred and the vegetables are soft.
    – Cool and peel: Remove the veggies from the oven and let them cool. Once cool, peel off the skins (they should come off easily) and set the roasted peppers and tomatoes aside.sheet pan roasted oven roasted tomato soup
  • Sauté the Aromatics
    – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
    – Add the chopped onion: Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
    – Add the garlic: Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  • Combine and Simmer
    – Add the roasted peppers and tomatoes to the pot with the onions and garlic.
    – Pour in the vegetable broth: Stir to combine.
    – Season: Add the smoked paprika, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
    – Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • Blend the Bisque
    – Cool slightly: Let the soup cool for a few minutes before blending.
    – Blend: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. Just blend in batches and be careful with the hot liquid.
    – Add cream: Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Heat gently until warmed through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Serve and Enjoy
    – Ladle the bisque into bowls.
    – Garnish: Top with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil or cream, and some crunchy croutons or a slice of crusty bread on the side.
    – Savor: Sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade roasted red pepper and tomato bisque!

Tips and Variations

  • Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.
  • Herb swap: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can be added for a different flavor profile.
  • Make it vegan: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and ensure your croutons or bread are dairy-free.
  • Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture and mix it with the unblended portion.

Pairing Suggestions

This bisque pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:

  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic companion to tomato-based soups. Try a gourmet version with brie and apple slices.
  • Caesar Salad: The crispiness of a Caesar salad complements the creamy bisque perfectly.
  • Garlic Bread: The robust flavor of garlic bread is a delightful match for the bisque’s smoky sweetness.
  • Wine: A light Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc would make an excellent pairing.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store and reheat your bisque:

  • Refrigerate: Let the bisque cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the bisque in individual portions. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stove over medium heat.
  • Reheat: Heat the bisque gently on the stove until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate.

Final Thoughts to Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Bisque

Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Bisque is more than just a soup; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth, comfort, and a burst of flavor to your table. The process of roasting the vegetables and blending them into a smooth, creamy bisque might seem a bit indulgent, but trust me, it’s worth every step. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy night in.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something deliciously comforting, give this bisque a try. I promise, your taste buds will thank you!

Happy cooking, and until next time, keep exploring new flavors and making magic in your kitchen!

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