There’s something about a bowl of tomato bisque that feels like a hug from the inside. If you’ve ever had the creamy, velvety version of this classic comfort food, you know exactly what I mean. Traditionally made with heavy cream, butter, and lots of ripe tomatoes, it’s a dish that combines simplicity with indulgence.
But what if you’re following a keto lifestyle, or simply trying to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor? Well, this Keto Tomato Bisque Soup recipe is the answer to your cravings! It’s designed to give you all the satisfying richness of a traditional bisque, but with a healthy twist. We’re talking fresh tomatoes, wholesome ingredients, and a creamy base that won’t derail your low-carb goals.
Let’s break down the details so you can recreate this velvety, delicious soup in your own kitchen.
Keto Tomato Bisque Soup Recipe
This recipe for Keto Tomato Bisque Soup is straightforward, uses common ingredients, and can be made in under an hour. With the perfect balance of creaminess and tang, this bisque will quickly become your go-to soup on any chilly day. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients Needed
To make this keto-friendly soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh Tomatoes (about 6 medium-sized): Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes as the base for the bisque. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also use canned, fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Onion (1 small): Adds depth and sweetness to balance out the tang of the tomatoes.
- Garlic (3-4 cloves): A must-have for that aromatic foundation that pairs so well with the tomatoes.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (3 cups): Choose a low-sodium broth for a cleaner taste.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): This will provide the signature richness that makes the bisque feel luxurious.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the onions and garlic to build flavor.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds an extra layer of creaminess and a subtle richness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning, adjust according to your preferences.
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Herbs
- Basil (fresh, 1 tablespoon): The herb of choice for tomato-based dishes.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon): A perfect match for the savory, earthy flavors.
- Bay Leaf (1): A little extra punch of flavor.
- Erythritol or another keto-friendly sweetener (optional, 1 teaspoon): Sometimes tomatoes can be slightly acidic, so this adds a subtle sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional, 1/4 teaspoon): If you enjoy a little heat, these will add a nice kick.
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Tomatoes
- If you’re using fresh tomatoes, start by blanching them in boiling water for about 1 minute, then transferring them to ice water. This will make peeling them much easier.
- After peeling, roughly chop the tomatoes and set them aside.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, just until fragrant.
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Cook The Tomatoes
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, along with the herbs (basil, thyme, bay leaf), salt, pepper, and a pinch of erythritol if using. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Blend The Soup
- Once the soup has simmered, remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a blender.
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Finish The Bisque
- Return the smooth soup to the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, just enough to heat through and make the soup beautifully creamy.
- Taste the bisque and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a bit of spice, add some red pepper flakes at this point.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of heavy cream, and enjoy the smooth, velvety texture.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role of each ingredient helps elevate your cooking game! Here’s why these ingredients are used in the Keto Tomato Bisque:
- Fresh Tomatoes: They bring natural sweetness and acidity, giving the soup its base flavor. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes, as they’re juicier and have a more robust flavor.
- Heavy Cream: This is the secret to the creamy texture. On a keto diet, it’s an ideal substitute for regular milk or cream-based soups that can be high in sugar and carbs.
- Butter and Olive Oil: These fats are crucial for sautéing, adding richness, and creating a silky smooth bisque. They provide the necessary fats for the keto diet without compromising on taste.
- Broth: The broth adds depth to the soup, and by choosing low-sodium options, you can control the salt levels.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh basil and thyme offer a traditional flavor profile that enhances the tomato base. Garlic and red pepper flakes bring savory warmth and mild heat.
Expert Tips
- Roast the tomatoes: For an added layer of flavor, try roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes the natural sugars and brings out a deeper, richer taste.
- Use full-fat cream: Make sure to use full-fat heavy cream, not half-and-half, to ensure the soup has that velvety, luxurious texture.
- Simmer longer for deeper flavor: The longer you simmer the soup, the more the flavors will develop. If you have time, let it cook on low for an hour or two.
- Make it dairy-free: You can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream if you prefer a dairy-free version. It will still be rich, but with a slight coconut undertone.
- Adjust thickness: If your bisque is too thick, just add more broth or a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations
While the Keto Tomato Bisque is already pretty incredible on its own, here are a few fun ways to tweak the recipe to your liking:
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even crumbled bacon to the bisque.
- Spicy Tomato Bisque: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a diced jalapeño for an extra fiery kick.
- Herb Variations: Try adding rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. You could also switch up the basil with fresh parsley for a brighter taste.
- Cheesy Tomato Bisque: Stir in some grated parmesan or mozzarella for a cheesy twist. The melted cheese will add even more richness and depth to the flavor.
Final Words
Keto Tomato Bisque Soup is a fantastic choice when you want something hearty, satisfying, and comforting without straying from your low-carb lifestyle. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to make, and the ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create a delightful, creamy soup.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a way to impress guests, this soup is bound to be a hit. And let’s not forget-it’s the perfect way to enjoy that classic tomato flavor in a way that aligns with your health goals.
FAQs
What Is A Keto Tomato Bisque Soup?
A keto tomato bisque soup is a low-carb version of the traditional tomato bisque, made with ingredients that fit within a ketogenic diet. It typically features tomatoes, heavy cream or coconut milk, and seasonings, without high-carb ingredients like flour or sugar.
How Many Carbs Are In Keto Tomato Bisque Soup?
A typical serving of keto tomato bisque soup contains about 4-6 grams of net carbs per bowl, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes In This Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes in keto tomato bisque soup. However, make sure to choose a variety with no added sugars or preservatives, as they can increase the carb count.
What Makes A Bisque Different From Regular Tomato Soup?
A bisque is typically a richer, creamier version of soup, made with cream, butter, and sometimes a thickening agent. Tomato bisque, specifically, has a smooth, velvety texture, often achieved by pureeing the tomatoes and blending in heavy cream.
Can I Make Keto Tomato Bisque Soup Dairy-free?
Yes, you can make the soup dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also replace butter with olive oil or avocado oil.
What Are Some Good Toppings For Keto Tomato Bisque Soup?
Great keto-friendly toppings for tomato bisque soup include shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, crumbled bacon, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil or heavy cream.
How Can I Make The Soup Thicker Without Flour?
To thicken the soup without flour, you can use heavy cream, cream cheese, or pureed cauliflower. These ingredients add richness and texture while keeping the carb count low.
Can I Freeze Keto Tomato Bisque Soup?
Yes, keto tomato bisque soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, do so gently to prevent separation of the cream.
How Do I Make Keto Tomato Bisque Soup More Flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor of keto tomato bisque soup by adding garlic, onion, fresh herbs like basil or thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also add depth.
What Is The Best Type Of Tomato To Use In Keto Tomato Bisque Soup?
The best tomatoes for keto tomato bisque soup are low-carb varieties like Roma or plum tomatoes. These types tend to have less water and more concentrated flavor, making them ideal for soups.