Imagine diving into a velvety, rich tomato bisque crowned with pillowy, cheesy dumplings that melt in your mouth - this isn't just another soup, this is a culinary experience that will transform your dinner table! Our Tomato Bisque with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that combines the bright, tangy essence of fresh tomatoes with the luxurious creaminess of a classic bisque, topped with irresistible, cheese-infused dumplings that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cheddar bay dumpling mix
Instructions
- Prepare your mise en place by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and roughly chopping the fresh tomatoes. Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic which can create a bitter taste.
- Introduce chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for 5-6 minutes, allowing them to break down and release their natural juices. Stir periodically to prevent sticking.
- Pour in chicken broth and add dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low-medium and simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer mixture to a standard blender to puree until smooth. If using a standard blender, return soup to pot after blending.
- Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning to taste. Keep soup on low heat, barely simmering.
- Prepare cheddar bay dumpling mix according to package instructions, typically by adding water or milk and mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Using a small ice cream scoop or two spoons, drop dumpling mixture directly into the simmering tomato bisque. Cover pot and cook for 8-10 minutes without lifting lid.
- Check dumplings for doneness by inserting a toothpick - it should come out clean. Dumplings will be fluffy and slightly expanded.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, ensuring each serving gets several dumplings. Optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of cream.
Tips
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor. If out of season, high-quality canned tomatoes work wonderfully.
- Take your time caramelizing the onions - this builds a deep, sweet flavor foundation for your bisque.
- When adding garlic, watch carefully to prevent burning, which can make the soup bitter.
- For ultra-smooth bisque, strain the soup after blending for a silky texture.
- Don't overmix the dumpling dough - this can make them tough instead of light and fluffy.
- Keep the pot covered while cooking dumplings to ensure they steam properly and become tender.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
