Linda CainThere’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of tomato bisque. It conjures memories of rainy afternoons and cozy evenings, usually paired with a simple grilled cheese sandwich. The crisp exterior of the bread gives way to creamy, melted cheese as the gooey goodness complements the smooth, rich bisque.
In my mind, few dishes complement tomato bisque better than this classic duo, providing a textural contrast that enhances the rich flavors of the soup. In this article, I’m excited to take you through the process of creating Neiman Marcus’ delightful tomato bisque, step by step. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe stand out.
What is Neiman Marcus Tomato Bisque?
Neiman Marcus tomato bisque is not your average tomato soup. It’s a silky, rich blend crafted with fresh ingredients, tantalizing spices, and the kind of depth that keeps you returning for seconds.
This soup truly embodies the essence of comfort food while retaining a touch of culinary sophistication. For those who haven’t stepped into the iconic department store’s café, let me assure you, this bisque is a revelation. Every spoonful is a warm hug on a chilly day.
The Ingredients
Creating this delightful tomato bisque requires a handful of key ingredients, each contributing to its charm. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and finely diced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried basil, lightly crushed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick)
- 3 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled Roma tomatoes
- 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pint heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
These ingredients might seem simple, but they combine to create a bisque that is anything but ordinary.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Tomato Bisque
Making Neiman Marcus tomato bisque is straightforward, yet requires a bit of care and attention to detail. It involves chopping fresh veggies, letting the flavors meld, and of course, enjoying every moment in the process. Now, let’s jump into the detailed steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start off by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice your carrots and slice the onion finely. Mincing the garlic is optional, but I highly recommend it; it adds a delicious undertone to the bisque.
Step 2: Sautéing
Heat 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced carrots and sliced onion. Sauté them until they soften, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir often to prevent browning. The aromas will start dancing around your kitchen, and that’s the magic beginning.
Step 3: Adding Flavor
Next, you’ll want to add the optional minced garlic, dried basil, and red pepper flakes into the pot. Stir them in for an additional minute. Letting it cook just a tad longer will release those delightful aromatic oils.
Step 4: Introduce the Tomatoes
Now, it’s time to bring in the star of the show! Open the three cans of whole peeled Roma tomatoes. For a touch of elegance, crush the tomatoes slightly with your hands as you add them into the pot—this releases their natural juices beautifully. Stir and combine with your sautéed veggies.
Step 5: Broth and Simmering
Pour in the quart of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 20-30 minutes. This allows all those vibrant flavors to meld. You’ll want to stir occasionally and enjoy the fragrant hints filling the air.
Step 6: Blend It Up
After simmering, take the pot off the heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the bisque until it’s velvety smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the mixture in batches to a blender. Just be cautious about hot splashes!
Step 7: Creamy Goodness
Finally, return the blended bisque to heat and stir in the pint of heavy cream. Let it warm through for about 5 minutes, adjusting salt and pepper to your taste. A hint of freshness may be just what you need.
Notes: Tips for the Best Bisque
- Use Fresh Herbs: For even more flavor, try fresh basil.
- Add Depth: A dash of balsamic vinegar can deepen the taste.
- Make It Smooth: Always blend the bisque thoroughly for that rich texture.
- Experiment with Spices: A bit of thyme or oregano can enhance the flavor profile.
- Garnish: Consider topping with croutons or a swirl of cream.
Storage Tips
This bisque stores beautifully in your fridge. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will last up to a week. If freezing, it’s best to separate it into portion-sized containers.
When reheating, add a splash of cream for that freshly made taste.
Nutrition Information
The nutritional profile of Neiman Marcus tomato bisque varies based on specific ingredient brands, but here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
Serving Suggestions
There’s no right or wrong way to pair your tomato bisque. Here are a few ideas that elevate the experience:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melting cheese paired with crispy bread is pure joy.
- Crusty Artisan Bread: Dip and savor; the crust is perfect for soaking.
- Fresh Basil Pesto Crostini: A burst of flavor that elevates your soup enjoyment.
- Parmesan Crisps: Adding a salty crunch complements the bisque beautifully.
- Garden Salad: A fresh side of greens balances the rich bisque.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Neiman Marcus Tomato Bisque?
If you’re missing some ingredients or prefer a twist on the recipe, here are a few excellent substitutes:
- Vegetarian Broth: Use this instead of chicken broth for a plant-based option.
- Coconut Cream: Swap out heavy cream for a tropical twist that’s still creamy.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: These add a smoky flavor that can enhance your bisque.
- Sweet Potatoes: For added sweetness and nutrition, replace some carrots with sweet potatoes.
- Sour Cream: A dollop can replace heavy cream for a tangy result.
Neiman Marcus Tomato Bisque Recipe
Equipment
- blender
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots peeled and finely diced
- 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried basil lightly crushed
- 2 cloves garlic minced (optional, for added depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a subtle kick
- 3 cans 28 ounces each whole peeled Roma tomatoes
- 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pint heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start off by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice your carrots and slice the onion finely. Mincing the garlic is optional, but I highly recommend it; it adds a delicious undertone to the bisque.
- Heat 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced carrots and sliced onion. Sauté them until they soften, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir often to prevent browning. The aromas will start dancing around your kitchen, and that’s the magic beginning.
- Next, you’ll want to add the optional minced garlic, dried basil, and red pepper flakes into the pot. Stir them in for an additional minute. Letting it cook just a tad longer will release those delightful aromatic oils.
- Now, it’s time to bring in the star of the show! Open the three cans of whole peeled Roma tomatoes. For a touch of elegance, crush the tomatoes slightly with your hands as you add them into the pot—this releases their natural juices beautifully. Stir and combine with your sautéed veggies.
- Pour in the quart of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 20-30 minutes. This allows all those vibrant flavors to meld. You’ll want to stir occasionally and enjoy the fragrant hints filling the air.
- After simmering, take the pot off the heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the bisque until it’s velvety smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the mixture in batches to a blender. Just be cautious about hot splashes!
- Finally, return the blended bisque to heat and stir in the pint of heavy cream. Let it warm through for about 5 minutes, adjusting salt and pepper to your taste. A hint of freshness may be just what you need.
Notes
- Use Fresh Herbs: For even more flavor, try fresh basil.
- Add Depth: A dash of balsamic vinegar can deepen the taste.
- Make It Smooth: Always blend the bisque thoroughly for that rich texture.
- Experiment with Spices: A bit of thyme or oregano can enhance the flavor profile.
- Garnish: Consider topping with croutons or a swirl of cream.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus tomato bisque offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. With a few fresh ingredients and a little time, you can craft a soup that warms the soul. The pairing with grilled cheese, croutons, or even a fresh salad perfectly complements this lovely soup. Make it your own by experimenting with flavors and ingredients.
Cooking should be a joy, not a chore. Each step in bringing this bisque to life allows for creativity while delivering a dish that feels like a masterpiece. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s make some bisque magic!
