Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Directions

1. In a large soup pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, till softened, about 7 minutes. Tie the basil sprigs together with a piece of kitchen twine. Add in the basil, tomatoes, chicken stock, 1-1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to the onions. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to medium low and let simmer till reduced by one-quarter, about 20 minutes. Let cold. Remove the basil sprigs.
2. In a blender, purae the soup in batches till very smooth, at least 3 minutes. Strain the soup into a clean pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Remove from the heat; stir in the cream and balsamic vinegar. Taste and add in salt and pepper if needed. Just before serving, cut the basil leaves into very thin slices. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with the fresh basil.
3. Yields about 8 c..
4. NOTES : An infusion of basil lends this creamy tomato soup an irresistible Provenial perfume. Balsamic vinegar brings the flavors into focus.
5. Sweet vine-ripened tomatoes are the key to flavor in this creamy soup. If your tomatoes are not at their peak of sweetness, add in 1/2 tsp. sugar to the soup.