Bonge’s Tavern Tomato Soup Recipe

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, a warm bowl of tomato soup is at the top of that list. There’s something about the creamy richness and slightly tangy flavor that just makes you feel cozy and cared for. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe inspired by a beloved classic-Bonge’s Tavern Tomato Soup. This isn’t just any tomato soup; it’s rich, savory, and perfect for pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich, or simply enjoying on its own.

Whether you’ve had it before at Bonge’s Tavern or you’re making it for the first time at home, this recipe is sure to warm both your body and soul. It’s simple yet deeply flavorful, with the ingredients working in perfect harmony. Let’s dive into the recipe and take a closer look at what makes it so special.

Bonge’s Tavern Tomato Soup Recipe

This recipe is an homage to the flavors served at Bonge’s Tavern, a place known for its comforting and well-executed dishes. It’s a robust, velvety tomato soup that offers just the right balance of sweetness and acidity, and is finished off with a creamy texture that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). The best part? You can recreate it in your kitchen with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients Needed

• Fresh Tomatoes (about 6 Cups, Chopped)

  Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the star of this soup. They provide a natural sweetness and acidity that canned tomatoes just can’t replicate.

• Onion (1 Medium, Diced)

  The onion adds a savory depth of flavor, with its natural sweetness that enhances the soup base.

• Garlic (3 Cloves, Minced)

  Garlic adds an aromatic bite that complements the richness of the tomatoes and balances the acidity.

• Vegetable Broth (4 Cups)

  Using vegetable broth instead of water or chicken broth deepens the flavor without overpowering the tomatoes.

• Heavy Cream (1 Cup)

  For that creamy, velvety texture that turns this simple soup into something extraordinary. It rounds out the acidity of the tomatoes.

• Olive Oil (2 Tablespoons)

  This will be used for sautéing the onions and garlic, contributing a rich base flavor.

• Salt & Pepper (to Taste)

  These essential seasonings bring everything together and elevate the flavors.

• Basil (fresh, A Handful Of Leaves, Chopped)

  Fresh basil adds an herbaceous note that brightens up the rich, creamy soup. It’s the perfect finish.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your tomatoes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Make sure your broth and cream are ready to go. You’ll want everything on hand before you start cooking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, stirring them into the onions and garlic. Let them cook down for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes release their juices and soften.
4. Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for another 20-25 minutes. The tomatoes should break down, and the soup should thicken slightly.
5. Blend the Soup: Once the soup has cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until it’s smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a stand blender.
6. Finish with Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors. If you like a bit of fresh herbaceous flavor, sprinkle in the chopped basil just before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a few extra basil leaves, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

• Fresh Tomatoes: Using fresh tomatoes, particularly those that are in season, is essential for the perfect tomato soup. Tomatoes are naturally acidic, and when combined with the rich cream, they create a balanced flavor profile. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes, but fresh is always best for this dish.
• Heavy Cream: While you could use milk as a substitute, the heavy cream is key to achieving that thick, velvety texture that sets this soup apart. It also softens the acidity from the tomatoes, creating a more mellow and indulgent flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: This broth is the base of your soup, so make sure to use one that’s flavorful. A good vegetable broth will add depth to the soup, giving it a fuller, more satisfying flavor than if you used water.

Expert Tips

• Straining the Soup: If you prefer an ultra-smooth soup, after blending, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining tomato skins or seeds. This step will result in a more refined texture, but it’s entirely optional.
• Balancing Acidity: If the soup ends up too acidic (this can happen depending on the tomatoes), you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Just a small amount can make a big difference.
• Herb Variations: While basil is the go-to herb for this soup, you could also experiment with fresh thyme, oregano, or even a sprig of rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Pre-roasting the Tomatoes: For a richer, deeper flavor, you can roast the tomatoes in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the soup base. This caramelizes the sugars in the tomatoes, enhancing the overall depth of the soup.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Tomato Soup: For a dairy-free option, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also use vegetable stock instead of broth to keep the recipe fully vegan.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the onions and garlic. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup base for a kick of spice.
• Tomato Basil Bisque: To make this soup even more decadent, add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking. Stir it in until it melts completely, and you’ll have a rich tomato basil bisque that’s smooth and savory.
• Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup: For an even deeper flavor, try roasting a whole head of garlic until caramelized and sweet, then add it to the soup for an additional layer of flavor.

Final Words

Tomato soup is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl. The Bonge’s Tavern Tomato Soup is no exception-it brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re making it on a chilly evening or serving it up as a starter for a dinner party, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser.

What I love most about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted. You can add your own twists, like a little heat or extra herbs, but the base recipe itself is perfect for any occasion. The simplicity, the heartiness, and the balance of flavors will have you feeling like a top chef in no time.