TOMATO-BASIL SOUP

A healthy tomato soup for this monsoon season with a flavored twist with basil. Basil not only gives a unique flavor and taste to the dish, but also helps you keep away from common cold and cough in this season. Add fresh cream to make it extra delicious.

INGREDIENTS

Tomatoes                    5 large
Tomato paste              2 Tsp.
Basil                           6-8
Cream                          3 Tsp
Butter                           4 Tsp
Salt                               to taste
Pepper                          to taste

PROCEDURE

Select very ripe, firm red tomatoes. Alternatively use canned tomatoes.
Boil water and let the tomatoes sit in water for 15-20 minutes in boiling water.
Skip the step if using canned tomatoes.
Now remove the skin of the tomatoes, puree it and then strain it.
Make a paste out of the basil leaves.
Take a thick bottom pan. Heat the pan and add the butter.
Add the tomato puree, tomato paste(you can skip this if the tomato puree is very red in color).
Let cook for about 20 minutes till the raw flavor is gone.
Now add the basil paste(basil looses its flavor if over cooked)
Now add the salt, pepper, cream.
Cook for another 5 minutes. Check the consistency and serve hot.